I’m excited to introduce CCCOER’s incoming Executive Council President, Andrea Scott, the Director of Open Educational Resources (OER) with the Office of Learning Advancement at Salt Lake Community College (SLCC). Andrea brings 12 years of experience in Open Education and has been actively engaged with CCCOER for 10 years. Those who have worked with Andrea know her as a generous collaborator and strong advocate, and we’re so fortunate to have her stepping into this role. Please join me in welcoming Andrea – I know we are all looking forward to her leadership!
Heather Blicher
Can you tell us about your role at Salt Lake Community College and what you enjoy most about it?
In my current role, I provide strategic direction and leadership for the Open Educational Resources (OER) program, Open SLCC. I’m responsible for program development, implementation, assessment, growth, and sustainability strategies. I co-chair the Open SLCC Advisory Committee and lead a cross-departmental team that supports faculty in Open Educational Practices and the adoption and development of OER, with a focus on enhancing student success and increasing access to quality educational resources. I’m proud of and enjoy the collaborative community, culture, and partnerships we have formed through our Open Education work. What excites me is the positive impact the program has had on SLCC students, faculty, and the broader community.
How did you first become involved in Open Education?
My journey in Open Education began in 2013 while I was working in the Educational Initiatives office at SLCC. At that time, our office served as a think tank, tasked with exploring innovative strategies for student success. It was then that our program director discovered Open Educational Resources serendipitously. Our program was initially supported by grant funding from Project Kaleidoscope, a Next-Generation Learning Challenge. This program was centered on OER adoption in general education courses. Over the years, Open SLCC has evolved with additional institutional support and collaborative partnerships to encompass Open Educational Practices, including Open Publishing and Open Pedagogy.
What excites you most about stepping into the role of CCCOER Executive Council President?
The opportunity to serve as the President of the CCCOER Executive Council is an incredible honor. Over the years, many cherished memories have been created through engagement with community members and leaders. The first CCCOER Member’s Mixer stands out in particular; as a newcomer and eager to learn, the warm welcome from the community and the immediate sense of belonging left a lasting impression on me.
Throughout my time in the Open Education field, I’m grateful for the mentorship I’ve received from several inspiring Open Education leaders, including former CCCOER Executive Council Presidents and members of the OEGlobal Board of Directors. Their guidance helped ignite my passion for Open Education and motivated me to grow and contribute meaningfully to the community.
Since my introduction to the CCCOER community, I’ve attended member meetings and professional development webinars, served as a committee member, and been a part of the Executive Council for the past three years, and have grown from these experiences. In this role, I’m excited to continue learning, inspire new and existing members, and give back to the community that has significantly shaped me both professionally and personally.
Looking ahead, what do you see as an opportunity for the CCCOER community in the next few years?
This is an exciting time for CCCOER, marked by the development of the new strategic plan. I’m looking forward to working with the Executive Council to carry out the next phase of growth by expanding the reach in workforce areas and broadening the scope of communities interacting with CCCOER, particularly underrepresented communities within the Open Education field.
I’m particularly looking forward to exploring the community of practice as an avenue for expanding co-creation, and it is an area I can envision limitless paths to extend our community’s collective knowledge and Open Education Work.
The Fun Stuff
What’s a book, podcast, or article you’ve enjoyed recently?
Two podcasts I’ve enjoyed listening to recently include Educating to Be Human, hosted by Lisa Petrides, and The Diary of a CEO, hosted by Steven Bartlett.
For entertainment, I’ve been rereading The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams.
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
I’m terrified of June beetles and great white sharks, no doubt due to my viewing of Jaws as a child. If you’re reading this, Mom, it’s not your fault. I snuck in when you weren’t paying attention. I have attempted to overcome my fears of great whites by cage diving with them, and I think it’s improved; however, I’m unsure if I’ll be able to confront my situation with June beetles.
Favorite place you’ve traveled (or would love to travel)?
I’ve traveled a bit, and one of my favorites is South Africa. I sincerely appreciate the beautiful landscape, culture, and wildlife. I hope to make it back within the next couple of years.
Coffee, tea, or something else to fuel your day?
Coffee is my go-to beverage, and I love French press.