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ACU Online’s Teacher of the Year, Dr. Kristin Koetting “KK” O’Byrne

Abilene Christian University is proud to announce Dr. Kristin Koetting O’Byrne, college professor in ACU Online’s Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership program, as the 2025 ACU Online Teacher of the Year. Known affectionately as “Dr. KK” to the Wildcat community, Kristin has made a lasting impact through her dedication to student growth, her passion for positive … Continued

Faculty Spotlight: Dr. James Thomas

For as long as Dr. James Thomas can remember, becoming a Texas Ranger was his dream. At just nine years old, after countless Saturday mornings spent watching westerns with his father in the piney woods of East Texas, he set his heart on the path of law enforcement. Decades later, at age 36, that dream … Continued

Faculty Spotlight: Chris Beard

At ACU Online, our faculty are not only instructors but also mentors who walk alongside our students in their academic and personal journeys. Their dedication for teaching is deeply connected to ACU’s mission of transformational education, where learning goes beyond textbooks to shape character and purpose outside of the classroom. This month, we are honored … Continued

Faculty Spotlight: Bill Hunt

Dr. Bill Hunt, a distinguished professor in the Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership program, represents the heart of Christian leadership and academic excellence. Known for his deep faith, kind spirit, and unwavering commitment to students, Dr. Hunt has left an indelible mark on ACU through years of dedicated service. He is not only an … Continued

Faculty Spotlight: Lauren Kinamon

When you meet Professor Lauren Kinamon, you’re struck not only by her kind demeanor but by her presence. Soft-spoken yet unmistakably strong, she carries a quiet confidence that inspires trust and admiration in both her students and colleagues. As a dedicated Speech-Language pathologist and instructor at ACU Online, Lauren brings a blend of compassion, expertise, … Continued

Faculty Spotlight: Drew Jamieson

Hailing from the great state of Alabama, Dr. Drew Jamieson always felt he had a calling on his life. Whether it was to bring people together, help others find greater spiritual connection, or even just to be a listening ear, Dr. Jamieson has striven to follow his passions.. Serving as a professor in the ACU … Continued

Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Kimberly Knutsen

Bringing passion, humility and kindness, Dr. Kimberly Knutsen is an esteemed writer, counselor and instructor who brings heart and authenticity to everything she does. As a professor of English within the College of Learning and Development at ACU Online, she is devoted to helping undergraduate students find their voice and express themselves through the written … Continued

Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Heather Rasmussen

What does it take to shape leaders who inspire meaningful change in their organizations? Dr. Heather Rasmussen is a dedicated faculty member in the Doctor of Education (Ed. D.) in Organizational Leadership program at Abilene Christian University Online (ACU Online), where she blends academic rigor with real-world expertise. With a strong background as a licensed … Continued

Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Frank Rojas

With a passion for mentorship and a commitment to fostering future leaders, Dr. Frank Rojas is more than a professor—he’s a mentor dedicated to developing scholars who aspire to improve their communities, workplaces and classrooms. Known for his unwavering dedication to student success and academic excellence, Dr. Rojas was honored as the Adjunct Teacher of … Continued

Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Deanna Melton-Riddle

Dr. Deanna Melton-Riddle is a dedicated and accomplished leader in healthcare administration. Currently serving as the program director for ACU Online’s Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration and Master of Healthcare Administration programs, Dr. Melton-Riddle brings extensive experience in healthcare consulting, clinical management and patient administration. Bringing a wealth of industry knowledge and practical insights … Continued