Open to opportunities

Jennifer Popa

@jenniferpopa

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Instructional Designer and PMP-certified Project Manager with 12+ years experience.

Zimbabwe

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What I'm looking for

I seek a collaborative environment that values equitable learning and innovation.

I am an Instructional Designer and PMP-certified Project Manager with over 12 years of experience in designing and delivering inclusive, data-driven learning programs across higher education and nonprofit sectors. My expertise lies in needs assessment, curriculum development, and collaboration with subject matter experts to create effective online, hybrid, and instructor-led learning experiences. I have successfully served over 1,000 adult learners through more than 50 courses, demonstrating my commitment to equitable and accessible learning outcomes.

Throughout my career, I have managed complex projects through the full learning lifecycle, focusing on measurable results and innovative solutions. My role as a Grants Manager has honed my client relationship skills, ensuring a 100% success rate in meeting deadlines and expectations. As a Freelance Writer and Editor, I have produced over 50 publications, with 10 receiving national awards, showcasing my ability to translate technical knowledge for diverse audiences. I am passionate about advancing learning through technology and innovation, and I thrive in collaborative environments that value problem-solving and effective communication.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Grants Manager

Current

Spark Community Capital

Jan 2025 - Present (8 months)

Developed and fostered relationships with clients to proactively identify and address potential roadblocks, manage expectations and ensure clients' needs are being met through consistent communication, resulting in a 100% success rate in meeting deadlines and client expectations. Managed simultaneous projects through the full lifecycle, from ideation to execution and measurement, in order to reach

Client Relationship Management Project Management Communication

Current

Freelance Writer & Editor

Current

Freelance

Jan 2023 - Present (2 years 8 months)

Managed all aspects of the writing process and owned each project from conception to publication, resulting in 50+ publications, 10 of which have received national awards and nominations. Collaborated with subject matter experts to produce high quality publications that translate technical knowledge for non-technical audiences.

Writing Editing Content Creation Technical Communication

Assistant Professor of English

Gannon University

Jan 2021 - Jan 2023 (2 years)

Designed, developed, and delivered f2f learning experiences, consistently receiving evaluation ratings higher than the ratings of the department, college, and university. Led a team of 6 in the production of a literary magazine, overseeing the training of student employees, assembling and working with judges, soliciting manuscripts, and coordinating with marketing regarding design and layout, resu

Instructional Design Curriculum Development Team Leadership Project Management Communication

English Instructor

Texas Tech University

Jan 2016 - Jan 2021 (5 years)

Managed and delivered 20 high-quality courses to diverse learners with a particular focus on inclusive design and accessible learning experiences. Leveraged learner feedback to improve learning experiences and was awarded the Teaching Effectiveness and Career Enhancement Program Fellowship.

Inclusive Design Accessible Learning Professional Development

Managing Editor

Iron Horse Literary Review

Jan 2016 - Jan 2019 (3 years)

Monitored production tasks and deliverables (processing orders, tracking and maintaining subscriptions, proofing issues, interviewing authors, etc.) in Asana for six annual issues of a nationally renowned publication showcasing the work of 230+ authors. Spearheaded creation and implementation of a training system for efficiently onboarding novice associate editors resulting in greater clarity and

Production Management Training Systems Team Management Communication

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Texas Tech University

PhD, English

2016 - 2021

Completed doctoral studies in English, focusing on advanced research and critical analysis within the field. Engaged in rigorous academic work and contributed to scholarly discourse.

University of Alaska Fairbanks

MFA, Creative Writing: Fiction

2012 - 2014

Pursued a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing with a specialization in Fiction. Developed advanced writing skills and engaged in extensive creative projects.

Michigan State University

BA, English

2001 - 2005

Earned a Bachelor of Arts in English, building a strong foundation in literature, language, and critical thinking. Developed analytical and communication skills essential for academic and professional pursuits.