Staff Spotlights: Missy Andersen, M.A.

Ensuring all students have the tools and support they need to succeed is the driving passion behind Melissa “Missy” Andersen’s work at Bushnell University. With a master’s degree in education from the University of Nebraska–Kearney, Andersen serves as the university’s accessibility coordinator and instructional designer. She plays a key role in helping students navigate their academic journey with confidence, clarity, and support. Andersen ensures that every student is seen, heard and equipped to thrive by consulting with students and faculty, coordinating testing services, reviewing professional documentation, and activating reasonable academic accommodations.

Andersen joined Bushnell after moving from Nebraska to Oregon when her husband had accepted a youth pastor position in Springfield. “I saw the job opening and was immediately interested,” she recalls. “It was the right opportunity at the right time.” Since then, she has become a trusted resource on campus — part advocate, part academic guide, and always a steady presence for students navigating both visible and invisible barriers to learning.

In addition to supporting individual students, Andersen partners with faculty to design and evaluate curriculum and online courses, ensuring they meet best practices and accessibility standards that promote inclusive learning for all.

We recently caught up with Andersen to learn more about her dedication to accessibility, how she partners with students and faculty to create inclusive learning environments, and the ways she supports students in overcoming academic challenges. You can watch the full interview on Bushnell University’s YouTube channel or view it in the video below.

Helping Students Access Their Education

In her day-to-day work, Andersen meets with students who need academic accommodations and partners with faculty to implement them. “Sometimes I meet with students weekly,” she shares. “We go over what assignments are due, talk through any challenges, and make a plan. It’s a mix of check-in, encouragement and accountability — and it’s really meaningful to watch students grow throughout the semester.” She also helps coordinate testing services, reviews professional documentation, and evaluates course accessibility on the online learning platform. In short: if it supports student success, she’s probably involved.

“I love helping people in whatever ways I can,” she says. “As an accessibility coordinator, I get to help students access their education, and that’s a privilege.”

Building Community Through the Beacon Learning Space

In spring 2023, Andersen launched the Beacon Learning Community — a new initiative designed to give students a shared space to work, plan, and ask questions. Held weekly in the Bushnell library, the space provides academic support in a relaxed, come-as-you-are environment. “It’s just a simple idea — come work on assignments alongside others, and I’ll be there if you need help breaking things down or creating a plan,” Andersen says.

It has been a great way to offer support and community simultaneously, helping students feel connected while they tackle their coursework.

A Role Rooted in Faith, Purpose, and Support

“I truly believe that every student is made in the image of God,” Andersen says. “My role is to support students as they pursue their calling — and to do whatever I can to help them succeed along the way.” As both a department of one and a campus-wide collaborator, Andersen works on instructional design and disability advocacy, shaping a learning environment in which all students can flourish.

Andersoe’s main advice to students is to “get involved. Whether it’s campus events, student groups or just talking with faculty and staff — when you’re in the community, you’ll find the support you need.” She emphasizes that accessibility services work best when students reach out. “Come talk to me. We’ll figure it out together.”

Find out more about Bushnell’s accessibility services.