Citrus College has welcomed Monica Y. Jackson, Ph.D. as its first Online Education Instructional Design and Accessibility Specialist, a newly created role designed to support faculty and strengthen online learning for students.
Dr. Jackson, who holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science, a master’s degree in business administration, and a doctorate in educational leadership, brings decades of experience in online teaching and educational leadership. She previously served as assistant dean of academic affairs at a private college before working at Cypress College as Special Projects Director and Distance Education Coordinator. After years in administration, Dr. Jackson said she was ready to return to hands-on work with faculty.
“I just really want to focus on what I like to do, work with computers, design courses and help faculty improve online learning,” Dr. Jackson said. “This role allows me to do my job, go home, and know I’m making a difference without all the extra administrative responsibilities.”
Since arriving at Citrus, Dr. Jackson has launched a faculty survey to identify challenges and priorities in online teaching. She said the goal is to give instructors a chance to share their needs openly.
“You can’t fix what you don’t know,” Dr. Jackson said. “If they’re frustrated, I want them to tell me. This is their opportunity to get things resolved.”
She has also emphasized accessibility, noting that it is not optional but required by law and accreditation standards. Beyond compliance, Dr. Jackson explained that accessible design benefits all students.
“Captioning a video doesn’t only help students who are hard of hearing,” she said. “It also helps students who are learning English, or someone trying to watch on a train or in a noisy place. It’s about making education open to everyone.”
Her upcoming projects include developing a step-by-step training course with short videos and guides to help faculty strengthen their online instruction.
Colleagues say Dr. Jackson has already brought energy and expertise to the program.
“When I first met her, I was so happy, we had tried to get that position for so long, and finally we have her,” said Chuong Tran, Information Technology Specialist II. “She brings a lot of knowledge from other campuses that will really help our faculty and students. I just hope she stays here long to help improve the programs.”
Tran added that Dr. Jackson has been collaborative and eager to learn about Citrus culture.
Dr. Jackson’s supervisor, Dr. Jack M. Beckham II, dean of Social and Behavioral Sciences and Online Education, said her role is especially vital in a post-pandemic world.
“Since COVID, online education has grown dramatically, and it’s important to ensure that the quality of those courses is at the highest,” Dr. Beckham said. “Dr. Jackson will make sure faculty have all the tips, tricks and tools necessary to make classes engaging and exciting, so students will have a really positive and enriching experience.”
Dr. Beckham also encouraged faculty to connect with her directly.
“She is available with open office hours every week and by appointment to review courses,” he said. “She provides affirming, positive feedback on what’s working well and loving guidance on what may need to be revisited.”
Dr. Jackson said she has already felt welcomed by the Citrus community.
“I really enjoy the people. Even if you’re having a tough day, you’re surrounded by colleagues who understand,” she said.
Outside of work, she describes herself as a “shopaholic, shoeaholic, and thriftaholic,” hobbies she developed during the pandemic.
Looking ahead, Dr. Jackson hopes to see online education grow with more resources and dedicated training for faculty.
“My goal is to bridge the gap and show that teaching online doesn’t have to be harder, it can be easier with the right approach,” she said.
