RCCD Distance Education Launches New Podcast Series Spotlighting Innovation in Online Teaching and Learning

01/28/2026

Riverside Community College District (RCCD) Distance Education has launched a new podcast series designed to elevate conversations around online teaching, course design, and student engagement across the district. The series brings together RCCD faculty, staff, and experts in educational technology to explore topics that shape the future of digital learning.

Rooted in its mission to support the social and economic mobility of students, RCCD Distance Education ensures access, success, and equity by providing faculty with the tools, training, and resources needed to deliver effective, high-quality online instruction. This new podcast series expands those efforts by offering a platform for dialogue, innovation, and shared best practices.

Hosted by Michael J. Cennamo, an instructional designer and podcaster at Columbia University, the series features thoughtful conversations centered on online pedagogy and the evolving needs of today’s learners. Cennamo has been part of the Columbia University community since 2006 and currently serves as the Associate Director of Educational Technology at the Center for Veteran Transition and Integration.

“We are excited to provide a space where RCCD faculty can share experiences, challenges, and solutions,” said Shawna BuShell, Ed.D., RCCD Dean of Educational Services and Distance Learning. “Our goal is to support faculty as they engage, inspire, and motivate students in online environments, while also addressing the unique barriers online students face—such as isolation, mental health challenges, and limited connection to campus life.”

 

Inaugural Episodes Now Available

The first three episodes of the podcast series highlight diverse voices and expertise within RCCD:

1. Episode 1: Dr. Shawna BuShell
   BuShell discusses her vision for online education at RCCD, focusing on building strong support systems that help faculty and students thrive in virtual learning environments.

2. Episode 2: Dee Thompson
   Thompson, a Computer Information Systems instructor at Riverside City College, shares her experience teaching CIS and cybersecurity courses. She also discusses her work leading Soulful Circle, an online community supporting the mental well-being and academic success of African American women in RCCD.

3. Episode 3: Corey Timberlake
   Timberlake teaches sociology and ethnic studies courses at Riverside City College. He is the Director of RCC Umoja, a program dedicated to enhancing the cultural and educational experience of African American students at the college.

Faculty and staff are invited to visit the RCCD Distance Education Resource Shell to preview video clips and watch full episodes.

 

Call for Future Guests

RCCD Distance Education plans to expand the series with additional interviews featuring faculty across the district. Those interested in participating as a guest speaker are encouraged to contact Shawna BuShell, Ed.D.

“This podcast is an opportunity for RCCD to foster connection and collaboration within our online teaching community,” Cennamo said. “By sharing knowledge and elevating faculty voices, we strengthen the student experience districtwide.”

For more information and to view the full podcast series, visit here.

Published by External Relations & Strategic Communications