Melissa Whatley

Dr. Melissa Whatley is an Adjunct Professor at SIT Graduate Institute specializing in international education equity. Her research employs quantitative and mixed methods to analyze access in community college international programs, with current focus on pandemic impacts and virtual exchange initiatives.

Education credentials:

• PhD Higher Education - University of Georgia
• MA Romance Languages - University of Georgia
• BA Spanish - University of Georgia
• BA Romance Languages - University of Georgia
• BA Linguistics - University of Georgia

Research examines barriers to international education participation, impact of study abroad on community college success, and equity in curriculum access. Recent publications show strong emphasis on COVID-19 impacts (33% of articles), virtual exchange (27%), and equity frameworks (93% of research).

Honored with NAFSA's Innovative Research Award and serving as Associate Editor for the Journal of International Students. Current grants include:

• Exploring Access in Virtual International Exchange (Stevens Initiative)
• Global Scholars Program Assessment (Carolina Asia Center)
• Quasi-experimental Study of Global Learning Outcomes (CIES/ACPA Foundation)