Get in Touch

Christa Watschke

Director

Email
cmp123@psu.edu

Christa leads the Office for Digital Learning (ODL) within the College of Engineering (COE). The ODL team plays a vital role in supporting COE’s World Campus online programs, the microcredential initiative, Engineering Connect and provides consulting on all online and hybrid learning across the college.

In her role, Christa fosters collaboration among the various entities served by ODL, ensuring the delivery of high-quality services and outstanding learning experiences for students. She also contributes to several committees that guide the unit’s work and its alignment with Penn State’s objectives, helping keep the team informed on critical topics like accessibility, universal design, and up-to-date technologies.

Richelle Barkman

Instructional Designer

Email
rbw11@psu.edu  

Richelle partners with faculty to design innovative instructional strategies and engaging course content while integrating emerging technologies to enhance learning. With expertise in course development across online, hybrid, and in-person formats, she ensures high-quality, accessible learning experiences. Passionate about digital education, she is dedicated to supporting faculty, engaging students, and driving educational innovation. 

Jimmy Hughes

Instructional Technology Specialist

Email
jch5251@psu.edu

Jimmy serves as the Accessibility Liaison for the unit, playing a key role in ensuring equitable access to resources and services. He actively participates in multiple university committees, including the Accessibility Liaison group, the Accessibility User Group (AUG), and the Outreach & Online Education (OOE) Accessibility Team, where he contributes to institution-wide accessibility initiatives. In his role, he manages accommodation requests as they arise and is currently leading the development of an Accessibility Action Plan for the college. This initiative is designed to align with the latest Department of Justice regulations and WCAG 2.2 standards, ensuring compliance and improving accessibility for all.  

In addition to his accessibility work, Jimmy serves as the Studio Manager, overseeing the setup, training, and operation of the studio to ensure seamless functionality for faculty. He also manages faculty training on the use of classrooms for lecture capture, helping instructors effectively record and deliver their online courses. His expertise ensures that faculty can confidently use the technology to create high-quality instructional content. 

Thomas Iwinski

Instructional Designer

Email
tmi107@psu.edu

Thomas Iwinski, M.S., certification instructor, is an instructional designer with the College of Engineering at Penn State University Park. He earned a master’s degree in instructional technology and a bachelor’s degree in communications media. Tom has over 20 years’ experience designing and developing computer-based training and courseware for corporations and higher education. He co-authored the book, Multimedia Training, Developing Technology-Based Systems, McGraw Hill 1996, and designed and built several technology-based classrooms.

Maria Mercuri

Instructional Designer

Email
mgm5111@psu.edu

Maria collaborates with faculty to design microcredential and resident courses, integrating best practices and accessibility to support students. She enjoys creating visual aids and enhancing learner engagement. 

Penny Ward

Instructional Designer

Email
plw19@psu.edu

Penny partners with faculty in the development, design, and integration of instructional materials, delivery methods, and assessment strategies. She also helps to research and apply pedagogical principles, learning theories, and emerging academic and technological trends.  

Penny holds a master’s degree in education (Learning, Design, and Technology) and a Bachelor of Science degree from Penn State. She has earned certifications in e-Learning Design, Educational Technology Integration, and Online Teaching and Learning (K-12). Additionally, she is a published co-author of a chapter in the Handbook of Research on Online Discussion-Based Teaching Methods. Passionate about course design, she excels in evaluating and integrating technologies and software systems to enhance learning experiences. 

Elaine Whitmer

Instructional Technology Specialist

Email
etg10@psu.edu

Elaine uses digital tools and creative design to craft engaging and immersive experiences for learners. From eye-catching graphics and videos to interactive virtual learning environments, she creates media solutions that enhance education. Elaine also plays a key role in the college’s Micro-credential and Digital Badging programs.