Virtually Inspired Wins the 2019 USDLA Innovation Award for Excellence in Distance Learning

Virtually Inspired was recently honored by the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) with the world's most prestigious distance learning award presented for excellence in distance learning.

Virtually Inspired, powered by Drexel University Online, features a series of high-quality videos showcasing some of the brightest minds and best practices in the world of online and blended education.

The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) presented its 2019 International Distance Learning Awards to Virtually Inspired in conjunction with the 2019 National Conference in Nashville, TN. USDLA is a 501(c) 3 non-profit association, founded in 1987, as the nation’s leading distance learning organization. The association reaches 20,000 people globally with sponsors and members operating in and influencing 46% of the $913 billion dollar U.S. education and training market.  

These prestigious International Awards are presented annually to organizations and individuals engaged in the development and delivery of distance learning programs. Included in the recognition ceremony were awards for 21st Century Distance Learning, Innovation, Excellence in Teaching/Training, Quality Research Paper, Student Achievement, and Hall of Fame.

"As a premier organization for the entire distance learning profession, we are honoring Virtually Inspired as a leader in the industry," said Dr. Reggie Smith III, Executive Director of USDLA. "Virtually Inspired has raised the bar of excellence and we are truly honored by Virtually Inspired’s contributions within all distance learning constituencies.

The USDLA Awards were created to acknowledge major accomplishments in distance learning and to highlight those distance learning instructors, programs, and professionals who have achieved and demonstrated extraordinary results through the use of online, videoconferencing, satellite and blended learning delivery technologies.

“This year’s USDLA Award recipient Virtually Inspired represents the finest examples of online courses, best practices, and leadership in our field. The depth and breadth of the USDLA membership allows us to engage with leaders from higher education, K-12, industry, military, and government who daily demonstrate the power of distance learning. We are so very proud and excited to be able to recognize this level of excellence," said Mrs. Janet Major, President of USDLA.

“Virtually Inspired was designed to be a repository for knowledge-sharing, and a source of inspiration for educators around the globe tackling the opportunities and challenges of virtual education,” said Susan Aldridge, PhD, president of Drexel University Online. “We are proud to have received an Innovation Award from USDLA, and will continue to showcase the groundbreaking achievements of educators from around the world.” 

Mr. Pat Cassella, Chair of USDLA Board of Directors noted that, “This year’s award winners represent many of the most innovative leaders in the field of distance learning.” He continued, “I also look forward to seeing Virtually Inspired again during National Distance Learning Week, November 5-9, 2019.”

About Virtually Inspired

Virtually Inspired, powered by Drexel University Online, features a series of high-quality videos showcasing some of the brightest minds and best practices in the world of online and blended education.  

The site features virtual success stories from around the world, using the latest technologies—from virtual reality, robotics and holography, to real-time videoconferencing, gamification and wearables. It also incorporates an inspiring leaders section, dedicated to thought-provoking insights – through video interviews and guest blogs – from pioneers, trendsetters and visionaries in connected teaching and learning.  Likewise, given the website’s function as an open repository for information and ideas, there is a section for visitors to share their own leading-edge practices for follow-up research. https://virtuallyinspired.org

About United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) 

The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) is a 501(c) 3 non-profit association formed in 1987 and is located in Boston, Massachusetts. The association reaches 20,000 people globally with sponsors and members operating in and influencing 46% of the $913 billion dollar U.S. education and training market.  USDLA promotes the development and application of distance learning for education and training and serves the needs of the distance learning community by providing advocacy, information, networking and opportunity. Distance learning and training constituencies served include pre-k-12 education, higher and continuing education, home schooling as well as business, corporate, military, government and telehealth markets. The USDLA trademarked logo is the recognized worldwide symbol of dedicated professionals committed to the distance learning industry. http://www.usdla.org