Open Learning Academy
Advancing Your
Opportunities

Dr. Andrea Holmes, Professor of Chemistry at Doane University, received her PhD in organic chemistry from New York University and received a National Institute of Health post-doctoral fellowship at Columbia University in New York City. Dr. Holmes was the recipient of the National Science Foundation Presidential Early Career Award and the Henry Dreyfus Teacher Scholar Award. She has given hundreds of local, national, and international lectures, published two textbooks, authored more than 50 peer-reviewed articles, and holds several patents. Her hobbies are rescuing senior or special needs animals and dancing classical ballet.

Dr. Matthew Beio, Assistant Professor of Practice in Chemistry and Biochemistry at Doane University, received his PhD in chemical biology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Dr. Beio has been teaching organic chemistry and biochemistry for the past 12 years, specializing in online course development and online instruction. Dr. Beio deeply cares about his students and their success in his courses. When Dr. Beio isn't teaching you can find him rock climbing or hanging out with his cats.

Shawn Langan, Adjunct Faculty, is passionate about physics and astronomy and has had the privilege of sharing that passion for nearly 25 years. This curiosity naturally led to the study of physics and astronomy at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Afterwards, he worked as a lecturer and lab manager at UNL in the department of physics and astronomy. He then found himself at Doane University teaching classes on-ground and online through Doane University's Open Learning Academy.

Dr. Trisha Vickrey first came to Nebraska as a postdoctoral research associate in science education at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where she studied the instructional practices of STEM faculty. She has been a lecturer at UNL for the past three years. Trisha received a M.Ed. in education policy and management from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, where she studied middle school students' perceptions of a technology-enriched learning environment; and, a Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Virginia, where she developed two novel methods to detect dopamine neurotransmission in Drosophila. Doane presents Trisha with a rich opportunity to combine her passion for teaching and learning in chemistry, researching how students learn in chemistry, and using model organisms to better understand important biochemical processes.

Katy Dornbos has been teaching chemistry for 15 years at the high school and college levels. She is dedicated to building students' confidence in engaging with the world around them. She was a 2021 Nebraska finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching, and continues to be a leader in chemistry education. She has presented on topics in chemistry education at the state, national, and international levels. Katy enjoys running, biking, baking, and traveling domestically and internationally.

Amna Qureshi earned a Master's in Neurobiology and Behavior from Georgia State University and brings over 12 years of teaching experience to her role as a Biology professor. She has spent the last 5 years specializing in online STEM education and is dedicated to creating a stress-free and supportive learning environment for her students. Amna is known for her enthusiasm and encouragement and is a true champion of student success. Outside of academia, she enjoys spending time with her family and practicing yoga.

Terry Huffman is a retired professor of sociology with a PhD from Iowa State University. His area of scholarship primarily focused on educational issues facing marginalized populations. He is the author of a number of books including An Appalachian School in Coal Country, Tribal Strengths & Native Education, and Native American Educators in Reservation Schools. He lives in Lawrence, Kansas with his wife of nearly forty years, a super hyperactive dog, and two extremely laidback rescue cats.

Dr. Sam Dolezal is a born and raised Nebraskan with deep roots in the North Bend area. With a passion for health and wellness along with an education background in exercise science and education, Dr. Dolezal draws on all her education and experience to help others live and grow into their very best lives. Primarily, Dr. Dolezal serves as the Wellbeing Officer for a local company and teaches within the Open Learning Academy for Doane University. Prior to her time in the Open Learning Academy, Dr. Dolezal served as an assistant coach with the Doane Track and Field program primarily working the throws group. Outside of her professional life, Dr. Dolezal now volunteers for a local track & field team and spends time in the great outdoors.