Course Credits and References

Course Author Melissa Behrend (BA, MS) is a writer and writing instructor who has taught at the University of Evansville in Indiana, the University of Southern Indiana, and Benedictine University in Chicago.  She has also taught public high school English, reading, and journalism for over 15 years. Melissa has also worked freelance for several online sites and newspapers.   She received her MS is in education from Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale and her BA in English from Rollins College,  where she also worked as an editor.  Her first collegiate years were spent at the University of Florida and she is a proud Gator.

Course Instructor

Dana Kristan, with a BA in Sociology and an MA in Public Policy and Education, is an experienced online writing instructor and avid writer, bringing over two decades of teaching expertise to her role. Her knowledge extends into special education, where she specializes in needs assessments and systematic instructional designs, ensuring her teaching methods meet diverse learner needs. Dana's background includes managing educational programs for adults with severe disabilities in New York City. Her interests are diverse, spanning writing, journaling, music, cultural studies, and history, all of which add depth and breadth to her professional and personal endeavors.