Michelle Humphreys, Ed.D
Dr. Michelle D. Humphreys, formerly known as Rauch, is a distinguished educator and instructional designer with over 15 years of experience. She currently holds the position of an Online Professor and also serves as a Lead/Senior Curriculum and Instructional Designer & Technologist in both corporate and higher education settings. In these roles, she actively integrates instructional design models, adult learning theory, and emerging technologies to create impactful, engaging, and accessible learning experiences, thereby advancing the field of education.
Dr. Humphreys holds leadership roles at Houston Christian University and Grand Canyon University, where she serves as a driving force in curriculum design, faculty training, and large-scale online learning initiatives. Her proficiency with instructional tools, including Articulate 360, Camtasia, and various learning management systems, is highly regarded. She is the author of two influential books: Strategies in the Classroom: Are They Working? and Leaders and Their Abilities: Temperament to Resiliency. Her expertise is a source of inspiration, shaping faculty development and instructional design practices across higher education and corporate learning environments.
Dr. Humphreys' academic journey is marked by her dedication and excellence. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education from Arizona State University, followed by a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Phoenix. Her pursuit of knowledge led her to complete a Doctor of Education in Leadership and Higher Education at Grand Canyon University and a Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology from Purdue University. Her academic achievements have been recognized with several honors, including the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award and the Marquis Humanitarian Award, further establishing her credibility in the field.
• Arizona State University - BA
• University of Phoenix - MA
• Grand Canyon University - Ed.D
• Purdue Global - MS
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the profound relationship I have with Jesus. His guidance has instilled good ethics and professionalism, shaping all my work, both personally and professionally. Without His lead, I would not be where I am today. My family, who shares my passion for Christ, also plays a significant role in my success. Their encouragement fuels me each and every day!
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Never quit. If we quit, we will never know what could have come from the work. Often the good is right around the corner, and people quit too soon.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
To young women entering the industry, I advise thinking creatively, not accepting limitations imposed by others, and actively seeking out mentorship and opportunities for growth. Being proactive and open-minded can open doors you might not even know exist.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the challenges I see in the industry today is the need for more experiential, hands-on learning opportunities to replace or supplement traditional reading and writing assignments. Providing practical experiences better prepares students for real-world applications and enhances their understanding.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I deeply value faith, family, and my country. My personal and professional life is grounded in good character and principles, and they guide the decisions I make, the work I do, and the relationships I cultivate.
Locations
Grand Canyon University
Houghton, MI 49931