Dr. Joél Lewis Billingsley received a Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management from the University of South Alabama (USA) and an Associate of Arts degree in Culinary Arts from Bishop State Community College. She later returned to her alma mater to pursue a Master of Science and Ph.D. in Instructional Design and Development.  Since 2005, she has been educating students, conducting research, and facilitating community conversations. As an educator, instructional designer, and facilitator, her administrative role focuses on supporting faculty, staff, and students in inclusive excellence. Building on her leadership development and community-building experience,  she facilitates campus-wide initiatives to fulfill the mission of USA. She serves as Vice President for Diversity and Community Engagement at the University of South Alabama.