Inspire

Innovation in Action

Preparing students for a dynamic world through purposeful technology, innovative teaching, and connected learning experiences.

At Northeast Mississippi Community College, technology is thoughtfully integrated to support a shared vision for learning that prepares students for a dynamic and ever-changing world. Through innovative leadership, collaborative teaching practices, and meaningful learning opportunities, our campus community uses technology to empower creativity, communication, problem-solving, and connection. Leaders model purposeful technology integration, faculty inspire students to create and innovate, and learners engage in experiences that are collaborative, personal, and relevant. Together, we are building a culture where technology enhances teaching and learning while preparing students to make a meaningful impact both locally and globally.

Apple Learning Academy

Building Confidence, Creativity, and Connection

Innovation begins with a commitment to continuous growth in teaching and learning. The Apple Learning Academy was created to support instructors in diving deeper into purposeful technology integration and exploring new ways iPad can support creativity, collaboration, and student engagement. Through this year-long professional learning program, faculty participate in hands-on exploration of Apple’s Everyone Can Create learning guides while designing meaningful classroom activities that align with course learning goals. More than technology training, the Academy empowers instructors to grow as innovative educators who design impactful learning experiences for students.

Meet Our Apple Leaders

Apple Distinguished Educators. Apple Learning Coaches.

At the forefront of innovation are the Northeast Apple Distinguished Educators and Apple Learning Coaches. These educators actively support teachers and students by sharing best practices, coaching effective technology integration, and fostering a collaborative culture of growth. Committed to continuous learning, they stay current with evolving Apple technologies, ensuring classrooms remain dynamic, creative, and future-focused. Through their leadership, they inspire others to embrace new possibilities and elevate student learning experiences.

Apple Distinguished Educators

Dr. Carlena Benjamin is the Instructional Technology Specialist at Northeast Mississippi Community College, where she supports faculty and students in using technology to create engaging, personalized learning experiences. She leads the Northeast Apple Learning Academy, helping instructors integrate iPad into teaching and learning.

As an Apple Teacher, Apple Distinguished Educator, and Apple Learning Coach, Carlena is passionate about advancing education through innovation and collaboration.  She works closely with educators to model technology integration, empowering teachers to create engaging, student-centered learning experiences.

 Dr. Heather Kirk is an Associate Degree Nursing Instructor.

Apple Learning Coaches

Psychology Instructor, Dr. Emily Pollard, has a passion for making learning engaging, accessible, and relevant to real life. She specializes in child & adolescent development and social psychology, and strives to create meaningful educational experiences that connect theory to everyday application. Emily serves as the Tiger D.E.N. Food Pantry Director, where she works to support students and strengthen a sense of community on campus.

Emily is an Apple Teacher and Apple Learning Coach, integrating innovative technology into teaching to enhance student learning and creativity. A key part of the Apple Learning Coach program was learning how to help others feel comfortable taking risks, while using goal-setting and reflection to build confidence and encourage ongoing development.