Dr. Chris Gilbert, instructional designer, and Dr. Bala Mulloth, associate professor of management, were recognized for their course, Sustainability Strategy and Leadership. Gilbert also collaborated with Dr. Noshua Watson, sustainability executive in residence, on the recognized course, Sustainability Finance and Risk Management. Both courses are part of Catawba’s new MBA concentration in sustainability.
The courses were recognized for excellence in four areas:
Course Design — Thoughtfully structured courses with clear learning objectives, engaging content, and effective instructional strategies.
Interaction and Collaboration — Meaningful interaction between learners and instructors, with opportunities for collaboration that build a strong learning community.
Assessment — High-quality assessment practices that support learning outcomes, provide timely feedback, and enable effective evaluation of student progress.
Learner Support — Accessible, well-integrated support resources that help learners navigate the course and succeed.
For nearly two decades, the Blackboard Exemplary Course Program has honored instructors and course designers whose courses demonstrate best practices in online and technology-supported learning. Submitted courses are evaluated by other course developers, instructional designers, teachers, and professors using the ECP Rubric.
This was the first time Catawba Online courses were submitted to the Exemplary Course Program for review. Having both courses recognized on the College’s first submission reflects Catawba’s commitment to thoughtful course design, faculty collaboration, and student-centered learning.
“We are proud to recognize educators like Dr. Gilbert, Dr. Mulloth, and Dr. Watson whose work reflects the creativity, care, and intention behind impactful course design,” said Dr. Lisa Clark, associate vice president of academic transformation at Blackboard. “Their efforts help create learning experiences that are more engaging, effective, and supportive for students.”
The recognition also highlights the continued development of Catawba’s online graduate offerings, including the MBA concentration in sustainability, which prepares students to lead with purpose in a changing business environment.
To learn more about the Blackboard Exemplary Course Program, visit blackboard.com/blackboard-exemplary-course-program.
