Leading and Communicating in Dynamic Environments

Dr. Jared Cook is an Assistant Professor of Leadership and Chair of the Leadership Department in the College of Business at Doane University. Since joining Doane in 2019, Cook has primarily taught in the Leadership Studies and Master of Arts in Leadership programs, drawing on his Ed.D. from the University of South Dakota and M.S. in Education from Fort Hays State University. His research focuses on adult learning, educational simulations, and civic engagement, areas in which he has published several refereed articles and co-authored a book on post-traditional learning. Cook has been instrumental in developing innovative programs at Doane, including the MicroMasters in Strategic Leadership & Communication, an online microcredential program offered through DoaneX. This program exemplifies Cook's commitment to making leadership education more accessible and applicable to diverse learners. Through his multifaceted approach to teaching, research, and program development, Cook strives to bridge academic theory with practical skills, preparing students for the dynamic challenges of modern leadership roles while promoting civic engagement and lifelong learning.

Dr. Tiffany Shonerd, a Visiting Assistant Professor of Leadership at Doane University, brings a diverse background in educational leadership and instructional design to her role. With a recently completed Doctorate of Educational Leadership from the University of South Dakota (May 2024), an Education Specialist degree (2023), and a Master's in Instructional Design and Development from Bellevue University, Shonerd's academic journey reflects her commitment to educational excellence. Her research focuses on critical thinking and assessments in higher education, with her doctoral dissertation exploring the alignment between student and AI-generated definitions of critical thinking. Shonerd's teaching experience spans from early childhood education to adult learning, including her current role advising public school administrators and teachers through a leadership capstone project in partnership with the Nebraska Department of Education. As a School Board Member, she further demonstrates her dedication to educational leadership at multiple levels. Through her multifaceted approach to research, teaching, and leadership, Shonerd aims to advance understanding of critical thinking assessment in higher education, particularly in the context of emerging technologies, while bridging the gap between theoretical frameworks and practical applications in educational leadership.

Amanda Irions is an Assistant Professor and Assistant Data Analyst in the Communications Department at Doane University. She teaches the edX course Leading and Communicating in a Dynamic Society, where she focuses on developing students’ leadership, communication, and analytical skills for modern professional environments. Her work combines academic teaching with practical data and communication expertise.