History faculty member chosen to lead WSU Learning Innovations

Jenny Thigpen, an associate professor in Washington State University's Department of History, has been appointed as the new director of WSU Learning Innovations and Faculty Fellow.

"I am truly excited to begin this new role at WSU and to work with such a dedicated team within Global Campus," Thigpen said. "It's a privilege to collaborate with a group that shares a common goal: to provide an outstanding experience for students and to support faculty in their teaching endeavors."

Under the umbrella of WSU Global Campus, Learning Innovations partners with faculty across all WSU campuses - both physical and online - to foster a dynamic academic environment. The focus is on integrating cutting-edge technology and innovative teaching methods, supporting thoughtful experimentation, and ensuring every learner receives a comprehensive and engaging education.

"Learning Innovations has a unique opportunity to help translate the expertise of WSU's faculty to students across our system," Thigpen said. "We do this by helping faculty find the right tools and techniques to enhance student engagement and learning."

Learning Innovations has a unique opportunity to help translate the expertise of WSU's faculty to students across our system.

Jenny Thigpen, director of WSU Learning Innovations and Faculty Fellow
Washington State University

Thigpen joined WSU in 2008 as a faculty member in the Department of History. Her research specializes in U.S. women's and gender history, with a particular focus on the nineteenth-century Hawaiian Islands and the U.S. West. Her extensive academic experience and innovative approach to education were key factors in her selection to lead Learning Innovations.

"At WSU, I've been encouraged to expand my teaching into the online environment," she said. "Since 2018, I've been deeply involved in the Global Campus mission, developing and launching the history bachelor's degree online. I've also created and taught numerous online courses, served as our department's program director for the online degree, and participated in Global Campus committees for many years."

Thigpen's role as Faculty Fellow will further leverage her unique academic background and online teaching experience to guide the future direction of Learning Innovations.

"A significant part of my role involves acting as a bridge between the Learning Innovations team and WSU faculty," she said. "One of my top priorities is to enhance our outreach to faculty and make our resources more accessible and visible."

Looking ahead, Thigpen is eager to implement her vision for fostering faculty innovation at WSU.

"Our team will continue to build on the great work Learning Innovations has always done," she said. "In addition to launching a comprehensive faculty onboarding program, we plan to develop innovative workshops, tutorials, and other resources tailored for instructors. There are many exciting initiatives in the pipeline for the coming year."

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