Spotlight on Dr. Michelle Colpean: A Leader in Online Education and Community Engagement

At the heart of the University of Cincinnati’s 100% online Bachelor of Arts in Communication program is an inspiring leader: Dr. Michelle Colpean. As Program Director and Assistant Educator Professor, Dr. Colpean brings a unique blend of academic excellence, personal resilience, and community dedication to everything she does.

From creating meaningful connections in the virtual classroom to championing local and global causes, Dr. Colpean’s story is a testament to the power of communication – and the profound impact one person can have when they lead with purpose.

A Commitment to Students and Community

Dr. Colpean’s journey is deeply personal. As a first-generation college student and bereaved parent, she understands the unique challenges her students face. Her teaching philosophy reflects this: rigorous yet flexible standards designed to help scholars succeed while balancing demanding and sometimes difficult lives.

Her passion for education is matched only by her dedication to community engagement. Dr. Colpean describes this commitment as “moving beyond our roles to foster the greater good, centering the concerns of those who are often overlooked, and using our skills to create meaningful connections.”

This philosophy has fueled initiatives that have touched countless lives, including:

• Fundraising for Community Projects: Dr. Colpean has championed efforts to create accessible playgrounds and community spaces, ensuring inclusivity for all.
• Kindness Projects: Inspired by her son’s memory, her family’s campaign to spread acts of kindness have extended to several countries, creating ripples of compassion and connection worldwide.
• Advocacy and Volunteerism: From supporting bereaved parents to fostering animals and raising $2,000 for cancer research by running the NYC Marathon, her contributions are as varied as they are impactful.

Her work has not gone unnoticed. Dr. Colpean recently received the OCA Distinguished Community Engagement Award and was named a Wyoming, Ohio Citizen of the Year. She reflects on her recognition, “It was special to be seen by both my neighbors and my colleagues and to have that work be recognized across contexts.”

Balancing Online Education, Family, and Service

How does she do it all? According to Dr. Colpean, the secret lies in synergy.

“Big picture: they’re all connected,” she says. “Working to build a stronger community enriches my family’s experience here. Gaining more experience in community organizing and nonprofit communication provides real-world examples I can bring into my courses. Growth in one area helps me grow in another.”

She also emphasizes leaning into strengths and choosing commitments that are fulfilling rather than draining. “I try to gravitate toward things that utilize my existing skillsets so that nothing feels like too much of a stretch,” she explains.

Empowering Online Students

As an online educator, Dr. Colpean is passionate about creating high-quality, accessible learning experiences. Her own experiences as a working professional and parent deeply inform her approach, allowing her to connect with students who often juggle similar commitments.

“My students are often balancing the same types of family, work, and community obligations that I am,” she says. “I love teaching online students because they tend to have such interesting life and career experiences. Their perspectives enrich the learning experience for everyone in the class.”

Dr. Colpean’s students frequently praise her for her support, accessibility, and commitment to their success. One student shared, “Michelle Colpean was the best! So personable and easy to work with while also providing me with guidance for success not only in coursework but also in my career.”

Dr. Colpean’s advice for students navigating multiple commitments?

“The ability to manage all these commitments is just as important as what you’re learning in the classroom. Seek harmony that feels sustainable to you. Online learning not only provides the content you need but also builds comfort with technology and remote work, which is invaluable in today’s world.”

Why Dr. Colpean’s Leadership Matters

Under Dr. Colpean’s guidance, UC’s online BA in Communication program has become a hub for ambitious students seeking to balance education with their personal and professional lives.

Her ability to connect with students, support their goals, and inspire them to make meaningful contributions in their communities sets her apart. Whether she’s creating accessible pathways to education or fostering kindness on a global scale, Dr. Colpean is proof that communication can truly transform lives.

Learn more about UC’s online Bachelor of Arts in Communication program and how it can help you achieve your goals.