Building Our Team
OLIDA brings together a team of experts in order to produce quality, student-centered online learning. Our team includes professionals in the fields of instructional design, curriculum and instruction, media production, videography, graphic design, illustration, web design, law and disability advocacy.
Debra Desmarais
Debra’s background as a professional graphic designer and visual storyteller has launched the engaging online courses and the OLIDA Learning brand. Her hands-on experience as the mom of a child with a learning disability sparked the development of “Your Guide to Self-Advocacy”. Debra’s adjunct teaching experience in design and technology to students in higher education provides her with the understanding of how important it is to engage students in learning.
Paul Desmarais
Paul has worked in higher education as leader in the field of online learning and instructional design for over ten years. He has held positions in a number of well-regarded organizations including the American University in Cairo, St. John’s University, Johns Hopkins University and The George Washington University. He has specific interest in applying high-impact teaching practices in online learning, applying the universal design for learning model, accessibility, and authentic assessment.
Losira Okelo
Losira began her career in education developing and managing eLearning courses to help K-12 educators integrate project-based learning into their teaching. As part of her life-long learning journey, she added curriculum development in higher education, digital storytelling and voice-over skills to her professional toolbox. Losira is a PATH International certified Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning. Through horse and human interaction, she facilitates transformative student experiences.
Grace Desmarais
Grace Desmarais is a cartoonist and illustrator, whose playful style is inspired by myth and magic. She writes and illustrates in a variety of genres, including memoir, historical narrative, and fantasy. Her work is featured in anthologies and magazines. Desmarais’ mini comic “Song for Medusa” was named a “Favorite Small Press Book of 2022” by “Women Write About Comics”.
Marian Desmarais
Marian has first-hand experience as a student with a learning disability receiving special education services from Pre-K through grade 12. Achieving her high school diploma in 2018, she met many challenges with strong determination. Her input is invaluable to OLIDA Learning from first-person experience. Marian is an accomplished equestrian and works as an equine caregiver for Pegasus, a therapeutic riding facility offering classes for both children and adults.
Jennifer Davies
Jennifer‘s passions for photography, videography, and studio art intersect in her work as a multimedia artist. She is currently a videographer and editor at Conair Corporation, and has created videos for artist organizations, public speaking groups, schools, small businesses, and children’s television. With experience working in preschools and a lifelong interest in education, Jennifer seeks out creative opportunities to make learning fun and accessible.
