Michele Houston
Associate Director, Custom Learning Design & Development
Michele brings a deep background in instructional design and media production to her role as Associate Director of Custom Learning Design and Development. Michele works collaboratively with fellows, external experts and clients to design custom learning journeys using research-based best-practices. She uses program evaluations and platform analytics to offer continuous improvement options. She also produces and edits video content for hybrid and online courses, and produces and edits the weekly Better Understanding podcast.
Michele lives in the Boston area with her wife and dog. They enjoy exploring area hiking trails and beaches.
Professional Experience
Prior to joining Simmons, Michele spent 19 years as the Digital Newsroom Manager and Senior Lecturer in the Division of Journalism at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. In this role, Michele designed and taught video production, digital media and human rights courses. She also managed the purchase and integration of new technologies and taught faculty, staff and students best practices for technology use. Her greatest joy during this time came from mentoring students. Michele also consulted with SMU’s Simmons School of Education and Human Development as they built hybrid and online courses. She has extensive experience in media and instructional design, including stints at Yahoo!, and PBS affiliate KERA.