Youngstown State University has named Jackie Mercer as the General Education Coordinator, a role that bridges faculty collaboration, academic assessment and university-wide curriculum development.

A faculty member in the Department of English and World Languages since 2018, Mercer brings more than a decade of experience in education and campus leadership to the position. In her new role, she will chair the General Education Committee, coordinate university assessment efforts, and serve as a liaison between faculty, administrators and state transfer initiatives.

“I am really excited about this opportunity to connect with people across campus and better understand how our work fits together,” Mercer said. “Every department, every program contributes something essential to the student experience, and I want to help make sure those efforts are recognized, supported and aligned.”

Mercer said she views general education as the foundation of the YSU experience – one that challenges students to think critically, communicate effectively and make connections across disciplines.

“General education courses help students see the value in learning outside of their immediate interests,” Mercer said. “Whether it’s writing, math, music or history, those classes help students understand how different areas of knowledge intersect and shape the world around them.”

As general education coordinator, Mercer will also help guide faculty as they evaluate and design courses to meet the evolving needs of students.

“My first priority is to learn from the people already doing this work,” Mercer said. “ I want to make sure decisions are transparent, that faculty feel heard and that there’s strong communication between departments as we move forward with these changes.”

Jenn Pintar, provost and vice president for academic affairs, said Mercer’s commitment to collaboration and her background in both teaching and leadership make her an ideal fit for this role.

“Jackie’s enthusiasm for cross-campus collaboration and her deep understanding of teaching and learning embody the mission of YSU’s academic community,” Pintar said. “Her experience, energy and leadership will be instrumental in continuing to strengthen our general education program and ensuring that it serves all of our students well.”

Mercer’s first-year goals include building relationships across departments, supporting faculty through assessment and curriculum updates and ensuring compliance with state initiatives while maintaining YSU’s commitment to academic quality and innovation.