When Learning Becomes Teaching
Published on Wednesday, August 6th, 2025
Dr. Debby Douglas had her beginnings in Montgomery County, and we sure are glad she brought her talents back home to us! Debby was a student at Troy Elementary School, was homeschooled from the fourth through eighth grade, and graduated from West Montgomery High School in 2000. She started taking college classes here at Montgomery Community College, and transferred those to Pfeiffer University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in History.
“Attending MCC really prepared me for college coursework at Pfeiffer,” explains Debby. “I was an average student when I was younger, but learned good study skills at MCC and developed a passion for learning. Debby went on to get her Master’s Degree in American History from Eastern Carolina University in Greenville. Because of family commitments, Debby returned to Montgomery County serving as an adjunct instructor for MCC, teaching Adult Basic Education, History and Political Science. At the time, most of her pupils were adult learners, and she enjoyed the depth and variety of their life experiences as they grappled with current events and the roles of government.
As MCC’s Social Sciences Instructor, Debby teaches American Government, American History and World Civilizations classes. She also serves as the College’s Distance Learning Coordinator, managing MCC’s online learning programs, providing technical support, professional development, and instructional design training to faculty ensure effective instruction.
At the start of COVID, Debby decided to use that sequestered time to begin a doctoral program at Appalachian State University. Her Ed.D. degree in Educational Leadership was completed in 2025, making Debby our newest “Doctor” on campus! Her doctoral dissertation, Stories of Successful Professional Development at a Community College, was enjoyable to research but also helps her (and MCC) in her daily work. “My passion is to identify learning opportunities where instructors can learn from one another, share ideas for tools and methods, so that all of us become stronger, more effective teachers.”
Debby’s hobbies include spending time with her family, attending church, short trips that allow time for local history, and a desire for lifelong learning. Debby is passionate about the value of a community college education, especially as it relates to college transfer classes. “For students planning on a four-year degree, I advise them to choose their discipline carefully, making sure their course selections line up. Families can save tens-of-thousands of dollars by handling general education requirements here at home.”
Thank you Debby, for your enthusiasm and service to so many MCC students over the years!