Charisma University is thrilled to announce the appointment of Dr. Keyonda Smith as the new Dean for the School of Education. Dr. Smith brings a wealth of experience, academic prowess, and a commitment to advancing education to her new leadership role within the university.
Dr. Keyonda Smith earned her Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Trident University’s College of Education, specializing in a quantitative study titled, “The Relationship between Institutional Culture and Faculty Perceptions of Online Learning in Chiropractic Higher Education.” She also holds a professional Doctorate in Natural Health from Trinity University, a Master’s in Higher Education, and a Bachelor of Science in Health Education from Trident University.
Currently serving as the Director of Online Course Design at Maryland University of Integrative Health (MUIH), Dr. Smith plays a pivotal role in guiding faculty in developing engaging online courses. She is a recognized authority in instructional strategies, multimedia utilization, and online learning best practices, all grounded in evidence-based instructional research.
Dr. Smith’s dedication to research excellence is evident through her recognition as the 2019 Quality Research Award recipient by the International Distance Learning Awards. She has authored exploratory studies such as “ADA and Gamification: Considering Digital Learning Equality,” published in a peer-reviewed journal. Dr. Smith’s research designs have been accepted and presented at various national and international conferences, showcasing her leadership in the education sector.
Furthermore, she actively contributes to advisory boards, including the Maryland Distance Learning Association, Healthcare Associates of America Board of Directors, Quality Matters Instructional Designer Association, and Educause Peer Mentor. Dr. Smith is a “Certified Quality Matters Peer Reviewer,” contributing significantly to Blackboard’s Exemplary Course program and serving as a Peer Reviewer for the National Wellness Institute.
Dr. Keyonda Smith has recently been appointed as Digital Learning’s advocate and expert by MUIH’s Vice Provost, ensuring evidence-based research literacy within the Center for Teaching and Learning.
About University Deans at Charisma: University Deans at Charisma play crucial roles as administrators leading specific academic units or “schools.” These include the School of Business, School of Education, School of Law, School of Psychology & Behavioral Sciences, School of Philosophy & Religion, and School of Health Sciences. Reporting to the Chief Academic Officer/Provost, Deans lead faculty, establish academic policies, evaluate faculty members, and actively contribute to curriculum design. They represent the voice of their respective schools in the Executive Leadership Committee.
About Charisma University: Charisma University, a non-profit institution accredited by the Turks and Caicos Islands Ministry of Education and the ACBSP, is an institutional member of the American Council on Education. Committed to providing quality education, Charisma offers over forty-degree programs and three graduate certificates across its six schools. The University emphasizes flexibility, innovation, and the use of cutting-edge educational technologies to empower students in shaping their careers and futures.
Charisma University stands dedicated to fostering the intellectual, personal, and professional growth of its students through low tuition, a challenging curriculum, a highly qualified faculty, and robust academic support.
Welcome, Dr. Keyonda Smith, to Charisma University’s School of Education!
