Val Kelly.jpeg

Val Kelly

Associate Vice President
Kent State Online, Kent State University

Val Kelly oversees strategic innovation and provides faculty and student support for Kent State Online programs and courses

She has worked as an adjunct instructor in the User Experience Design degree program at Kent State University. She holds a Master of Science in Information Architecture and Knowledge Management and a Master of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication.

For nearly 20 years of working in higher education, she has been dedicated to increasing access to education by improving the online teaching and learning environment. She has experience in instructional design, multimedia development, and online program administration. Prior to that, she worked in the industry as a software help system designer, technical writer, and web developer.

More from Val Kelly
Public service is a broad field that encompasses both government agencies and nonprofit organizations, each playing a crucial role in addressing societal needs and improving communities. Although both sectors aim to serve the public good, they operate under distinct models that shape their impact and leadership challenges.
The field of criminology and criminal justice offers a wide range of career opportunities, from protecting communities to supporting victims and addressing global security challenges. Whether you’re looking to advance in law enforcement, work in international security, or advocate for victim rights, choosing the right concentration in your graduate studies is a critical step toward achieving your career goals.
Music educators play a vital role in shaping students’ creativity, self-expression, and appreciation for the arts. However, as the educational landscape evolves, so do the demands on music teachers to incorporate new teaching strategies, stay current with emerging trends, and create more engaging learning experiences for their students. Pursuing a Master of Music in Music Education from Kent State University—delivered 100% online—offers music educators the opportunity to enhance their teaching practices, expand their knowledge, and make a lasting impact on their students and school communities.
In today’s data-driven world, organizations across industries—including education—rely on program evaluators to assess the effectiveness of their initiatives and make informed decisions for improvement. Whether in schools, universities, nonprofits, or corporate training programs, program evaluators play a crucial role in ensuring resources are utilized effectively to achieve desired outcomes. The 100% online Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Research, Measurement, and Statistics at Kent State University equips students with the analytical skills and knowledge needed to excel in this impactful career.
In today’s fast-paced healthcare environment, access to accurate, timely, and well-researched information is more critical than ever. Medical librarians play a vital role in ensuring that healthcare professionals, researchers, and patients have access to the latest medical knowledge, helping improve patient outcomes and advance medical research. Kent State University’s 100% online Medical Librarianship Graduate Certificate is designed to prepare you for a specialized career at the intersection of healthcare and information science.
With everything going on in the world, the ability to bounce back from setbacks and adapt to challenges is more important than ever. The good news for you is that we now know resilience is not just a personality trait reserved for a select few; it’s a skill that anyone can cultivate. In this post, we’ll explore how developing resilience can transform the way you navigate both personal and professional challenges and enhance your resilient leadership attributes and how the Rise & Thrive: Leading with Resilience workshop from Kent State University can equip you with the tools you need to thrive.
Kent State University is proud to welcome Assistant Professor Patrick Bitterman, Ph.D., who joined us as a new tenure-track faculty member in the Department of Geography at Kent State University this semester! Bitterman comes to us from the School of Global Integrative Studies at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he worked as an assistant professor of geography since 2019 and as a postdoctoral research associate at the University of Vermont (2017-2019).
Natural disasters like hurricanes, wildfires, and earthquakes can devastate communities, but Geographic Information Science (GISc) plays a critical role in preparing for, responding to, and recovering from these events. By leveraging spatial data and advanced technology, GIS professionals provide actionable insights that save lives, protect property, and guide recovery efforts.
Kent State University continues to be recognized for its excellence in online education, earning high marks in U.S. News & World Report’s newly released 2025 Best Online Programs rankings. The university’s online programs have been ranked among the best in the nation, reflecting Kent State’s commitment to providing high-quality, accessible education.
The global struggle with substance use disorders is more critical now than ever. With millions of people grappling with addiction, the need for qualified addictions counselors is on the rise. Whether addressing the opioid epidemic, alcohol misuse, or other substance use problems, professionals who can provide support, counseling, and recovery assistance are in high demand. If you’re considering a career in this vital field, earning an Addictions Counseling Undergraduate Certificate from Kent State University could open the door to fulfilling opportunities where you can make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Here’s why now is the perfect time to pursue a certificate in addictions counseling.
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