I strive to create collaborative and inclusive learning environments that foster critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving in diverse, multicultural societies. My objective is to inspire students to become proactive global citizens capable of navigating and shaping our interconnected world with empathy and innovation. Speaking multiple languages opens doors to leading and serving our fellow citizens.
MICHAEL DILLON, PH.D.
Hola, I am a Professor of Spanish, Chair of the Department of World Languages and Cultures, and Director of the Morehouse Pan-African Global Experience Program at Morehouse College.
My career reflects a deep commitment to fostering global understanding through language education, digital innovation, and inclusive leadership.
Before joining Morehouse College, I served as an Associate Professor and Learning Management System Coordinator at Piedmont College, where I refined my expertise in educational technology and curriculum design. These experiences laid the groundwork for my ongoing efforts to merge technology, pedagogy, and cultural immersion in transformative ways.
I hold a Ph.D. in Romance Languages and master’s degrees in Spanish Applied Linguistics and Educational Technology, complemented by a Graduate Certificate in Latin American Studies. My Quality Matters (QM) Teaching Online Certificate underscores my dedication to excellence in online education, and my Certified External Reviewer (ALD-MLA) credential reflects my expertise in evaluating language programs for academic quality and cultural relevance.
In a world defined by technological growth and cultural interconnectedness, I view educational leadership as a catalyst for preparing students to thrive globally. I am devoted to equipping students with the linguistic and cultural competencies necessary for meaningful engagement and professional success.
Global Engagement and Innovation
Over the past decade, I have designed and led study abroad programs in Spain, Mexico, Cuba, Ghana, Panama, Belize, Brazil, Colombia, Peru and Ecuador — experiences that enrich students’ academic and cultural perspectives. I have also integrated the Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) framework across campus courses, expanding opportunities for virtual global collaboration and intercultural learning.
In my work as a Digital Learning Strategist, I guide educators in leveraging technology to improve learning outcomes and equity in access. I advocate for open-source solutions and employ strategic e-learning frameworks to enhance course design and engagement. My experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) allows me to create interactive content for Digital Humanities projects, bringing data and storytelling together in meaningful ways.
Areas of Expertise
- Designing and managing study abroad and global learning programs
- Implementing COIL for international virtual collaboration
- Reviewing and evaluating language departments (ALD-MLA Certified)
- Designing and deploying online and hybrid courses
- Developing SCORM-compliant e-learning content
- Creating educational simulations and immersive learning environments
- Integrating GIS and data visualization in humanities learning
- Latin American Cinema
- Applied Linguistics