For Dr. Andrea Haltom, education has always been about expanding opportunity for learners. After earning both her master’s degree and Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Capella University, she built a career focused on adult education and curriculum development. Today her work centers on supporting programs designed to help learners move forward in their educational journeys. We invited Dr. Haltom to share more about her work and how her academic experiences continue to shape her approach.
How are you currently applying what you’ve learned across your degrees in your career today? Are there specific projects, roles, or initiatives where that academic foundation shows up most clearly?
Dr. Andrea Haltom: When earning the Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction degree at Capella University, I studied curriculum development and design. Specifically, I studied identifying gaps in curriculums and addressing student needs. In my masters (also through Capella) I focused on adult learners and online learning. Now I am developing curriculums for a local adult education program (Indy Reads) for their certification programs (through the Department of Workforce Development) and for their High School Equivalency (HSE) courses. My learning at Capella gave me the foundation to understand how to identify curriculum gaps, address concerns with adult learners, and ultimately best serve our students.
Looking ahead, how do you see your expertise in curriculum, instruction, and higher education influencing the work you want to do next?
Dr. Andrea Haltom: I am very passionate about adult education and giving people the chance to better their lives through education. With my background in adult education, online instruction, and curriculum design, I hope to be able to continue to support non-traditional online learners with courses that meet their needs in every aspect and best support them in their goals.
Are you a proud Capella graduate making an impact in your field or community? We’d love to hear your story. Share your accomplishments and be considered for a future alumni spotlight by submitting the Alumni Accomplishments Form. Your journey could inspire others to keep reaching for their goals.
