Hello, my name is Darcy!
As an enthusiastic, confident & candid leader in instructional design and technology, I've dedicated over 20 years to transforming e-learning experiences.
At Citi, where I serve as Vice President of Instructional Design, my team of expert instructional designers and I have launched AI-enhanced learning initiatives across 18+ languages, reaching a global audience of over 250,000, reducing annual e-learning spend by 65%.
My journey from the classroom to the forefront of corporate learning has been driven by a passion for innovative education solutions. My work at cybersecurity provider ReliaQuest and global hospitality brand Bloomin' Brands, Inc. has not only supported business goals but also significantly improved learning outcomes.
Beyond my corporate endeavors, I'm deeply committed to nurturing future talents of an average of 80-100 students every term as a MOOC Teaching Assistant in the Instructional Design & Technology MicroMaster's program at the University of Maryland Global Campus, and as a mentor to students & teachers transitioning into instructional design in my community.
This journey reflects my belief in the power of strategic instructional design to foster organizational growth and personal development, a belief I bring to life every day through my service.
I also enjoy hiking, writing dangerous yet accessible HTML+CSS+Javascript, learning American Sign Language, & attempting to play the ukulele.
Identity
Skills
- Learning Leadership
- E-Learning
- Instructional Design
- Adult Education
NUMBERS
Testimonials
Work History
Instructional Design Vice President, Senior Manager
Citibank
I lead a team of 8 expert instructional designers / developers & 1 Area9 Learning Engineer contractor on Citi's Learning Implementation Services Instructional Design Team, which is responsible for designing & building global, large web-based trainings. I've managed design & development of a volume of ~139 courses (~20% of which are audiences of 3000+ learners) from various global functions, including Enterprise Risk Management, Chief Data Office, Security & Investigative Services, Finance, Regulatory Engagement, and Human Resources, for global audiences averaging 24,000 & as large as 250,000 in 17+ languages. We have reduced Citi's e-learning build spend by 65%, saving ~$2M annually. We develop online learning using a variety of development platforms, including evolving learning design by using next-generation AI-powered development platforms such as Area9 Rhapsode, which we use for ~19% of our work. I love my role as a driver of AI-powered e-learning design, development & deployment across the enterprise.
Skillsets: learning and development, adaptive learning, e-learning, project management, banking, compliance, Articulate, Degreed, Area9 Rhapsode, Microsoft 365, Adobe Creative Suite, adaptive learning, accessibility.
MOOC Teaching Assistant
University of Maryland Global Campus
In the UMGC Instructional Design and Technology edX Micromaster Program, I engage learners & extend learning in discussion forums with practical and technical advice to deepen their understanding & application. I support the instructional team with exams, interviews, or other live learner engagement. I participate in weekly instructional team meetings. My classload includes 4 x 8-week courses: Learning Theories; Instructional Design Models; Digital Media, New Tools & Technology; and the Instructional Design Course Evaluation & Capstone Project. I engage in discussions to review the instructional design work of an average of 80-100 students per term, and provide a weekly average of 136 specific, constructive discussion replies every week, including evaluation of their Signature & Capstone projects using our edX learning platform.
Skillsets: learning & development, e-learning, higher education, edX, adult education, andragogy, instructional design, generative AI.
Mentor
Hillsborough Education Foundation
I volunteer as a mentor for students in Hillsborough County Public Schools via the Hillsborough Education Foundation's "Take Stock in Children" program. I foster a passion for learning & self-discipline using face-to-face & virtual mentoring tools.
Skillsets: mentoring, learning & development.
Senior Instructional Designer
ReliaQuest (cybersecurity)
I led the design, engineering, and deployment of specialized learning experiences within our Cyber Security Operations Center, focusing on Threat Detection, Operations, and Security Architecture. My efforts notably increased our New Hire Onboarding program’s NPS by over 40 points within six months. Key accomplishments include:
- Developing and implementing a comprehensive new hire onboarding program that was aligned with core company values, enhancing learner engagement and operational understanding. This initiative significantly increased efficiency through LMS automation, saving over 20 hours of training team time.
- Collaborating across functions to deliver impactful learning solutions in areas such as sales enablement, leadership development, and mindset coaching, substantially contributing to contracted annual recurring revenue and gross retention.
- Leading the adoption of agile methodologies within the training team, effectively reducing training asset release times by 10% through the strategic use of Monday.com for project tracking and stakeholder feedback.
In general, my passion for educational design helped our people see, feel, learn, and change, building cybersecurity confidence among our clients and teams.
Skillsets: learning & development, e-learning, web front-end development, project management, leadership development, cybersecurity, ServiceNow, Articulate, Litmos LMS, Microsoft 365, Adobe Creative Suite, GreyMatter, Splunk.
Instructional Designer
Bloomin' Brands, Inc. (Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba's Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill)
As an Instructional Designer at Bloomin' Brands, Inc., I led the development and implementation of innovative training solutions that enhanced field operations and supported organizational goals. My work involved designing comprehensive online and on-ground programs, focusing on technical job skills, leadership development, and new operational processes. I adeptly managed project initiatives from ideation to implementation, applying the latest trends in learning technologies and instructional design. Key achievements included:
- Leadership Training: Developed modules that significantly improved leadership skills, enhancing both employee and customer experiences.
- Project Management: Enhanced collaboration and efficiency through the strategic development of learning and knowledge management platforms.
- Innovative Initiatives: Spearheaded the deployment of the OBS Manager On-Going Development, created a Kitchen Manager Development Cycle, and launched a Virtual Event Playbook.
- COVID-19 Response: Designed and executed a comprehensive vaccination information campaign, adapting training materials to ensure safety and continuity.
- Content Development: Produced diverse training materials and managed large-scale webinars that engaged remote learners and supported safety protocols.
Recognized for my methodical approach, ability to foster collaborative environments, and dedication to integrating cutting-edge technology, I significantly contributed to maintaining training excellence during challenging times.
Skillsets: learning & development, e-learning, web front-end development, project management, leadership development, hospitality, ServiceNow, Monday.com, Articulate, Absorb LMS, Microsoft 365, Adobe Creative Suite.
Senior Faculty Development Specialist
Saint Leo University
I created and maintained web-based, multimedia, and print employee learning resources, including web frontends, learning objects, and online courses. I developed solutions tailored to employee learning needs using authorware such as Trivantis Lectora, Articulate Storyline, H5P, and the Adobe Creative Suite. I further customized these solutions by editing HTML5, CSS, and limited Javascript, integrating them into workflows of other organization platforms, such as the Brightspace D2L learning management system, Microsoft Office 365 SharePoint, and WordPress CMS. I led and supported employees across business units in effective instructional practices using classroom, video-conferencing, web-conferencing, and online learning management systems. I developed innovative employee learning and support experiences, such as an intelligent chatbot for Microsoft Teams utilizing the Microsoft Azure Bot Framework. I also provided consulting and training services in the development of strategies for face-to-face, blended, and online learning environments in one-on-one, small group, and large group settings. I directed and developed whole-university, departmental, and individualized professional learning programs to enhance both instructional and student services quality. Furthermore, I instilled trust amongst the staff, made employees feel valued, exercised empathy, and always emphasized a commitment to self-growth.
Skillsets: learning & development, e-learning, web front-end development, educational leadership, Brightspace D2L.
Steering Committee Webmaster
Florida Faculty Development Consortium
I volunteered on the Florida Faculty Development Consortium Steering Committee as webmaster, and was a frequent presenter at the consortium's bi-annual conferences.
Skillsets: faculty development, web design, WordPress, learning management system administration.
Adjunct Professor
Saint Leo University
I developed and delivered online instruction for EDU 228 Educational Technology as part of the undergraduate programs in the College of Education, where I've developed a highly-customized online course that includes humanized and personalized learning components, intelligently automated agent-based interactions, and a chatbot course evaluation interface.
Skillsets: Undergraduate education, adult education, pre-service teacher training, Brightspace (LMS), Blackboard Collaborate, personalized learning.
Instructional Design Specialist
St. Petersburg College
I managed the design of online courses, including the creation of a project management system based in Google Drive and Microsoft Office 365, web front-end development using HTML5+CSS+Javascript frameworks like Bootstrap and W3, learning object development using H5P and Articulate Storyline, and Quality Matters course quality assurance reviews. I also provided training, course development consultations and support to faculty teaching online classes. I was instrumental in the creation of workflows that led to a standardized, rapid-prototyping workflows across the leadership, instructional designers, multimedia developers, and subject matter experts in the organization.
Skillsets: Instructional design, HTML5, CSS3, Javascript, Desire2Learn (LMS), Articule Storyline, H5P, accessibility, project management.
Instructional Technologist
Saint Leo University
I supported faculty in effective instructional practice by providing consulting and training services in the development of effective teaching and learning strategies for face-to-face, blended, and online learning environments. I directed and developed programs for faculty to enhance the quality of instruction and incorporate learning-centered approaches into instruction. I consulted with faculty on the appropriate use of technology for teaching and learning, and demonstrated use of instructional technology and instructional practices.
Skillsets: Adult education, SMART Interactive technology, Blackboard Collaborate, Pearson LearningStudio (LMS), WordPress, HTML, faculty development.
Coordinator of Learning Technology
Oslo International School
In my role as a learning-focused leader, I completed strategic planning, including an creating a vision for technology implementation that supported student learning. I adapted and created technical solutions, managed technology resources, trained and supported teaching staff, and supervised learning technology staff. I served as the system administrator for the Fronter learning management system, Mandarin library management system, and various other ancillary learning technology platforms. I established a whole-school agenda for technology implementation to support both student and staff learning.
Skillsets: Adult education, international education, library collection management, hardware and network support, Fronter (LMS), educational leadership.
Web Designer
Pennsylvania School Press Association
I designed and maintained the web presence of the Pennsylavania School Press Association, whose mission is supporting scholastic journalism throughout the Commonwealth. This was a volunteer position, which included a seat on the Board of Directors.
Skillsets: Web development, HTML, WordPress, Joomla, SQL, journalism.
Instructional Technology Coach
East Pennsboro Area School District
I installed, configured, customized, implemented, and maintained the school district's first learning management system server using Microsoft IIS, LaMP, and Moodle. I managed and supported technology supplied by the Classrooms For the Future grant, including interactive whiteboards, laptop computers, multimedia projectors, cameras, and other peripherals. I taught, modeled, and evaluated the effective integration of technology into the daily tasks of faculty and staff, including hardware, software, and intranet/internet applications. I manage grant compliance, including data collection, analysis and reporting. I collaborated with the Director of Technology and Director of Communications and Community Relations to promote district programs via print, online, and broadcast media. I managed theater technology, including sound, lighting, and multimedia projection systems.
English Language Arts & Journalism Instructor
East Pennsboro Area High School
I instructed students in grades 9-12 in English language arts. I also instructed students in grades 9-12 in journalism, including all varieties of media, marketing, etc. Additionally, I managed and maintained theater audio and lighting systems.
Education History
M.S. Classroom Technology
Wilkes University
Cumulative GPA: 4.00
B.A. English with Secondary Certification
Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania
Cumulative GPA: 3.77
Graduated Magna Cum Laude
Sigma Tau Delta
Education Skillsets
Technology Skillsets
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95%
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90%
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95%
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98%
Language Skills
- English
- Spanish
- Norwegian
- American Sign Language
Certifications
Certified Adaptive Learning Engineer, Area9 Lyceum
(ID 1656288000000, June 2022)Certified Trainer, Situational Leadership II
(December 2020)Online Facilitator Certificate, Quality Matters
(License 86912, June 2015)Peer Reviewer Certificate, Quality Matters
(License 85563, May 2015)Applying the Quality Matters Rubric Certificate, Quality Matters
(License 78425, January 2015)Professional Teaching Certificate, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
(License 08605953, May 2004)
Conference Experience
"Cards Against Complacency: a party game for fatigued professionals"
(Speaker, American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Convention, 21 November 2019)"Plan Your Lesson with 1 Sentence (the heart of UDL)" & "Addressing the Curmudgeons & Naysayers"
(Speaker, bi-annual meeting, 8 April 2019)"Tampa Bay Regional Instructional Design Consortium"
(Director, bi-annual meeting, 29 March 2019)"Differentiating Instruction with Scratch"
(Speaker, Miami Archdiocese, 18 March 2019)"Cards Against Complacency: A Party Game for Fatigued Faculty"
(Speaker, Conference on Meaningful Living and Learning in a Digital World, 5 February 2019)"Mindfulness & Success: My Plan of Action"
(Speaker, Florida Faculty Development Consortium, 17 April 2018)"Cards Against Complacency: A Party Game for Fatigued Developers"
(Speaker, Florida Faculty Development Consortium, 13 October 2017)"Build a Strong Bridge: The Nuts & Bolts of Instructor Support During LMS Transition"
(Speaker, Brightspace Fusion, 19 July 2017)"Technology Used for Professional Development"
(Speaker, Florida Faculty Development Consortium, 19 April 2017)"Teaching Strategies that Increase Students' Motivation to Learn"
(Speaker, Florida Faculty Development Consortium, 27 October 2016)"Challenges: Onboarding & Developing Adjuncts"
(Speaker, Florida Faculty Development Consortium, 4 November 2014)"Brainstorming: How do you introduce new topics to faculty (without the standard one-off presentation)?"
(Speaker, Florida Faculty Development Consortium, 25 March 2014)"Who Left the Door Open? Planning, Managing, and Growing as a Professional in an Online Synchronous Classroom"
(Speaker, Florida Educational Technology Expo, 28 January 2014)"Transforming Education With Classrooms For the Future"
(Speaker, Pennsylvania Association of Colleges and Teacher Educators, 29 October 2009)"Harness Social Media to Superpower Your School News"
(Speaker, Pennsylvania School Press Association, 12 March 2009)"Innovation in High School Journalism"
(Speaker, Pennsylvania School Boards Association Educational Excellence Fair, 3 October 2007)"High School Journalism the Joomla Way"
(Speaker, Pennsylvania Educational Technology Expo and Conference, 12 February 2007)
Awards
Q3 Employee of the Quarter
(Bloomin' Brands, 2020)Graduate, Leadership Saint Leo
(Saint Leo University, 2017)Vice President's Outstanding Performance Award
(Kathryn McFarland, Vice President of Enrollment, Saint Leo University, 2014)Keystone Award
(Executive Board President Robert Hankes, Pennsylvania School Press Association, 2009)Eagle Scout Award
(National Eagle Scout Association, 2004)
Printable Resume
Printable Values Statement
My Work
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- #ProfessionalDevelopment
- #OnlineCourseDevelopment
- #JobAids
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