Teaching 🍎​ 

I believe education is more than a right—it’s the spark that ignites human potential. Learning is a gift that brings meaning and joy to our lives, allowing us to grow, imagine, and create a better future. Through education, we embark on a journey of discovery, one that shapes not only ourselves but the world around us.

Teaching is about more than instruction. It’s about inspiring, guiding, and connecting. Great teachers create lessons that resonate, lighting a spark in students. When teaching and learning are in harmony, we build communities that grow stronger together. Teachers lead with purpose, shaping not just minds but hearts, and driving progress in ways that transform lives.

Educational leadership is about creating opportunities for change. Whether it’s a breakthrough in research or launching a career-shaping curriculum, leadership moves us forward. It’s about turning vision into action, making decisions that uplift students and entire communities.
​
At the core of it all is the commitment to do what’s best for students. Dr. Nel Noddings’ “ethics of care” reminds us that relationships are the foundation of success in education. Like John Dewey, I believe a strong democracy is built on engaged, thriving educational communities. Together, we can create a future filled with understanding, compassion, and opportunity for all.

- McLean Donnelly

PROGRAM CHAIR & FACULTY

University of Minnesota

I'm honored to be the first full-time faculty member in UX Design. I've also supported the university-wide effort to launch a new major in UX Design starting in the fall of 2025. I teach courses on UX Design, UI Design, Artificial Intelligence and Innovation.​

LEARN MORE

PROFESSOR, UX DESIGN

Savannah College of Art & Design

I taught undergraduate and graduate courses in UX Design, Innovation, and Business. Notably, my students achieved recognition by winning the prestigious Red Dot International Design award for college students. I played a pivotal role in crafting the foundational curriculum for the SCAD Masters of UX Design degree program.

LEARN MORE

Favorite Design Books 📚​

​Accessibility for Everyone by Laura Kalbag provides a comprehensive introduction to creating inclusive web designs that accommodate people with various disabilities. The book covers the principles of accessible design, emphasizing why accessibility matters and how to approach it practically. It's a useful read for designers and developers who want to make their work accessible to all.

Learn More

As Little Design as Possible by Sophie Lovell delves into the philosophy and legacy of influential designer Dieter Rams, who pioneered the “less but better” approach in product design. The book covers Rams’ iconic work with Braun and Vitsoe, presenting his ten principles of good design and illustrating his minimalistic, functional style.

Learn More