Dr. Dorothy Kemp: Advocate for Student Success in the MS in Leadership & HR Development

Dr. Dorothy Kemp has built her career around helping others succeed. A three-time LSU graduate and adjunct faculty member in the Master of Science in Leadership and Human Resource Development (MS LHRD) program, Dr. Kemp also serves as Director of Educational Support Services and Learning Specialist at the LSU Academic Center for Student-Athletes. In this role, she supports student-athletes through tailored learning programs so they have the tools and strategies to excel in both academics and life. 

Her dedication to education and leadership earned her a spot on the Baton Rouge Business Report’s 2024 “40 Under 40” list, an honor that recognizes young professionals who are making an impact in their fields and communities. 

Meet Dr. Kemp 

Tell us about yourself and your background. 
I’m a three-time LSU graduate. My undergraduate degree and master’s are in business, but I’ve come to truly appreciate the people-centered focus of my PhD in Leadership and Human Resource Development (LHRD). In addition to serving as an Instructor, I work as the Director of Educational Support Services at the LSU Academic Center for Student-Athletes, where I oversee the learning support programs for LSU student-athletes.

What advice do you wish someone had shared with you when you were a student? 
Learn how to balance and prioritize early. I completed my PhD while working full-time in a student-focused role in higher education, which meant that the busiest times at work often aligned with peak academic periods. Learning how to manage both was challenging—but it was essential for success.

What are the biggest challenges and rewards of teaching online? 
One of the biggest rewards is connecting with students from all over the country. Through their assignments, I get to learn about their diverse and fascinating lives. It’s meaningful to know that I’ve had a small impact on so many educational journeys. On the flip side, it can be difficult to build personal relationships in an online setting. I always welcome updates from current or former students. Please reach out!

How has your academic journey influenced your approach to online learning? 
My PhD program was my first real experience with online courses. I’ll admit, I learn best when I can engage with material in multiple ways and ask questions. As an instructor, I aim to reflect that by being available, providing timely feedback, and delivering course content in varied formats to support different learning styles.

How do you help students understand the real-world relevance of course materials in an online setting? 
I believe reflection is a key learning strategy that’s often underestimated. When students truly engage in reflective activities, they begin to see how course concepts connect to their personal and professional lives. I utilize assignments that encourage students to apply theory to practice, helping them recognize how they’ve used or will use what they’ve learned beyond the classroom.

In your current role as Director of Educational Support Services at the LSU Academic Center for Student-Athletes, how do you apply principles and practices from your experience as an instructor in the MS in LHRD? 
Whether as an instructor or director, I consistently apply principles of organizational learning and development. In both roles, I focus on structuring experiences that maximize both individual and organizational outcomes. I’m particularly committed to the development of my team, not just to meet institutional goals, but to support their personal and professional growth as well.

How do you see the future of online learning evolving? 
Online learning is poised for exciting changes, particularly in how we assess student learning. With the rise of AI, traditional assessment methods are becoming less effective. As educators, we need to design courses that evaluate not just the final product but also the process students take to get there. That’s where authentic learning happens. It’s a challenge, but I’m optimistic about the direction online education is heading.  

Congratulations on being recognized in the Baton Rouge Business Report's 2024 "40 Under 40" list! What does this recognition mean to you, and what impact do you hope to continue making? 
Being named to the Baton Rouge Business Report's 2024 "40 Under 40" was an exciting and humbling honor. I hope to continue making a positive impact through my work, whether by creating meaningful learning experiences, fostering supportive work environments, or contributing to the community. 

Learn More About the MS in LHRD 

The online Master of Science in Leadership and Human Resource Development from LSU prepares students to create meaningful change in organizations through research-based leadership strategies, workforce development, and talent management. Students gain practical skills they can apply immediately in their careers, while also building long-term strategies for organizational growth and transformation. 

Explore the online MS in LHRD or the online MS in LHRD with a concentration in Workforce Development and apply today.