Jim Harger, M.A., M.S., serves as Assistant Director of Faculty Development in higher education, where he trains and mentors online instructors in research-informed, effective teaching practices. With 15-plus years of experience and over 200 online courses taught, he specializes in supporting faculty working with non-traditional learners, helping shape impactful online learning environments. He is the author of Online College Success: Prepare, Manage, and Achieve Success in Online Education, a textbook currently used in student success courses to support academic readiness and retention in virtual classrooms.

Elizabeth Harger, M.A., M.Hum., is a writing coach, freelance editor, and affiliate professor in higher education. With formal training in writing, curriculum design, and instructional technology, plus over a decade of experience in online higher education, Beth has helped thousands of writers engage deeply with craft, process, and purpose across academic and creative contexts. She specializes in student-centered, coaching-based instruction and served as a subject matter expert for university-level creative writing degree. As a member of the Authors Guild, Beth continues to immerse herself in conversations around writing and publishing.

Courtney McKnight, Ph.D., Ed.D., is a special education professional with expertise in educational leadership and instructional design. She has over nine years of experience supporting student learning in both K-12 and higher education settings. Her work focuses on inclusive teaching, digital readiness, and strategies for engaging non-traditional learners. Dr. McKnight has led special education programs, developed online curriculum, coached pre-service teachers, and contributed to faculty development in virtual and hybrid environments. She brings a practical, research-informed perspective to supporting diverse learners and equipping educators to navigate evolving instructional demands.