Profile for

Akua Cosby, Ed.D.

Learning Experience Designer

Akua Cosby’s path into learning design and higher education was inspired by a lifelong fascination with how environments shape human agency, motivation, and learning. Throughout her educational journey—culminating in her Ed.D. at Baylor University— Akua became deeply interested in dismantling institutional barriers and creating spaces where every learner feels equipped to succeed. Building upon this foundation, her doctoral research centers on workplace equity and organizational change, exploring how executive leadership, agency, and self-valuation intersect with institutional power structures. This scholarly focus informs everything Akua does, allowing her to blend her background in psychology and counseling with organizational change, helping shape learning experiences that honor both the cognitive and human sides of education.

A conversation with Akua

What do you like most about your career?

What I love most about my career in instructional design and higher education leadership is the opportunity to innovate at the intersection of human potential, technology, and organizational growth. Every day allows me to collaborate with educators to solve complex teaching challenges and transform abstract learning goals into dynamic, learner-centered experiences. Seeing a course come to life in a way that sparks curiosity, removes barriers to learning, and builds student confidence is profoundly rewarding. My work allows me to continuously advocate for educational equity while shaping the future of learning.

How do you help students at East Texas A&M?

While my primary role involves working directly with university faculty, my ultimate focus is always on student access, engagement, and academic success. I help faculty design and remediate course environments using Universal Design for Learning (UDL), Quality Matters (QM) standards, and interactive technologies in D2L Brightspace. By establishing clear course alignment and accessible digital learning spaces, I ensure students experience structured, intuitive, and engaging learning environments.

What advice would you give to incoming students at East Texas A&M?

My biggest piece of advice for incoming students is to lean fully into curiosity and remember that you belong here. College is not just about mastering content; it is a transformative space to discover your voice, challenge your perspectives, and build a community that supports your growth. Do not hesitate to lean on your professors, utilize your campus resources early, and give yourself grace as you navigate new academic and personal chapters.

Educational Background

• Ed.D., Learning and Organizational Change, Baylor University, Conferred 2025
• M.A., Professional Counseling, MidAmerica Nazarene University, Conferred 2007
• B.S., Psychology, Kansas State University, Conferred 2003

Awards and Honors

• Doctoral Merit Award & Scholarship Recipient, Baylor University, 2025
• Mary Jo Smalls Fellow, Society for the Future of Higher Education, 2024

Professional Organizations

• Board of Directors, Society for the Future of Higher Education
• National Association for Multicultural Education
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated