Starr (Woods) Holden

Doctor of Education with 20+ years of progressive leadership in online/distance education, instructional design, and workforce learning across higher education, non-profit, and corporate settings. Proven track record directing full-cycle course development (needs analysis through launch and evaluation) using ADDIE, UDL, Backward Design, and Quality Matters standards. Launched a training program generating 1,143+ enrollments and $1.2M+ in revenue within four months.

Skilled in leading and mentoring instructional design teams, managing enterprise LMS platforms, ensuring ADA/508/WCAG accessibility compliance, and integrating VR, AR, AI, and 3D simulation into immersive learning experiences.

Director of Distance Education - AV Covered, LLC

(2024-08)

• Lead end-to-end online course development — needs analysis, instructional design, QA, launch, and evaluation — for colleges, universities, and non-profits.
• Directed launch of the Dementia Caregiver Training online course (June 2025), generating 1,143+ enrollments and $1.2M+ in revenue within four months.
• Direct and mentor a team of external instructional designers; set strategic direction for corporate, B2B, and B2C training markets.
• Apply UDL, TiLT Higher Ed, Backward Design, ADDIE, and Quality Matters standards while maintaining ADA/504/508/WCAG 2.1 compliance.
• Design immersive learning experiences using 360° VR, AR, AI, and 3D simulation; manage Canvas, Cornerstone, Blackboard, and D2L Brightspace LMS platforms.

Instructional Designer, Online Programs - Bradley University

(2021-06 - 2024-08)

• Led design and development of interactive online courses across Nursing, Computer Science, Math, Business, and Engineering.
• Served as lead instructional designer for Computer Science and Engineering, managing external contracts and outcome assessments.
• Integrated VR, AR, AI, 3D simulation, and gamification to create innovative, immersive learning experiences.
• Ensured compliance with QM, UDL, NC-SARA, FERPA, ADA, 508, and WCAG standards and accreditation requirements.

Executive Director - Brain Bowl Foundation, Inc.

(2023-08)

• Lead strategic vision, operations, and administration of the Foundation, driving community impact initiatives.
• Write and manage competing grants, external contracts, and financial resources; develop and administer the annual operating budget.
• Provide administrative leadership across foundation meetings, events, and stakeholder relations with institutional and community leaders.

Director of Instructional Design / LMS Administrator - AV Covered, LLC

(2018-01 - 2022-12)

• Supervised the Learning & Development team, directing course and product development initiatives.
• Implemented evidence-based adult learning strategies using VR, AR, AI, gamification, and multimedia training tools.
• Conducted needs assessments and implemented company-wide learning strategies to close performance gaps.

Director of Distance Learning - Boys & Girls Clubs of America, National Headquarters

(2016-11 - 2018-01)

• Directed a team of instructional designers, developing scalable training solutions for corporate, military, and B2B/B2C audiences.
• Partnered with the Department of Defense to deliver skill-based training for military club members.
• Applied adult learning theory and workforce development principles to design high-quality ILT training courses.

Instructional Designer / Production Coordinator I - Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

(2015-06 - 2016-11)

• Designed immersive VR and 3D simulation courses across Flight Aviation, Aeronautics, Engineering, and Computer Science.
• Developed online courses for military partners including NASA, the Air Force, and the Navy.
• Served as Canvas LMS subject matter expert, supporting course analytics and instructor training.

Ed.D.

• Instructional Technology & Distance Education Specialization: Instructional Design & Technology - Nova Southeastern University (2016)

M.Ed.

• Administration & Supervision (Higher Education) - Middle Tennessee State University (2004)

B.S.

• Political Science (Minor: Environmental Science) - Savannah State University (1998)