SMC Names New Dean for Online Programming

Dr. Lena Maslennikova has joined Spartanburg Methodist College as the new Dean of Online Instruction, to oversee content and development for SMC Online.

“President Scott Cochran and the executive leadership have a strong vision for the future of online education at SMC, and I’m excited to contribute to bringing that vision to fruition,” she said. “I truly look forward to seeing how we can collaboratively grow, strengthen, and expand SMC Online.”

Dr. Maslennikova joins SMC from North Greenville University (NGU), where she was instrumental in developing six programs and launching the school’s College of Adult Professional Studies.

“We are honored to have Dr. Maslennikova join us to continue building SMC Online,” said Dr. Curt Laird, Provost and Executive Vice President at SMC. “Her experience building these programs will be invaluable in assuring that we expand our offerings deliberately and successfully.”

Dr. Maslennikova, originally from Kharkiv, Ukraine, found her passion for online education as a student. After earning her degree remotely, she served as an instructional designer and professor before moving to the administrative side to develop online programs.

Prior to NGU, Dr. Maslennikova worked in instructional design and e-learning at the College of Arts & Sciences at Regent University in Virginia Beach, VA. She has taught at NGU, Regent, and other institutions. Dr. Maslennikova has published several papers on leadership, education trends, religion, and online education. She has a Master’s in Education from Kharkiv Pedagogical University and both a Master’s in Business Administration and a Doctor of Strategic Leadership from Regent University.

Dr. Maslennikova and her husband currently live in Taylors, SC, with their two children. The family enjoys spending time outdoors, adventuring to state parks, exploring neighboring towns, and visiting theme parks, and museums.