When students enroll in CPCS programs, they're not just looking for another college course—they're seeking an education that connects directly to their lives, careers, and aspirations. For Kali Dunlap, Instructor and Program Coordinator within the College of Professional and Continuing Studies, that's precisely what drives her work every day. Her passion for student success isn't just part of her job; it's the foundation of everything she does.
A Career Built on Student Success
Dunlap's approach to education has been shaped by years of mentoring working professionals, technical graduates, and nontraditional learners who are returning to school to advance their careers. Her work across the BAS in Public Management and the BAS in Business Office Technology programs reflects a clear mission: to create learning experiences that bridge academic concepts with real-world application.
Faculty & Program Coordinator
What truly distinguishes her work is her background in academic advising and program coordination, where she spent years guiding students through career changes, degree planning, and personal challenges. That experience shaped her teaching philosophy: "I'm drawn to the real-world relevance of these fields and the opportunity to help students grow professionally, build confidence, and reach their goals."
Instead of traditional research, Dunlap focuses on practical impact—crafting courses, resources, and support systems that genuinely meet students where they are. For Dunlap, applied learning isn't theoretical; it's personal, practical, and transformative.
Guided by Real-World Relevance
Dunlap teaches several cornerstone courses in CPCS, including Introduction to Applied Science, Professional Collaboration and Technology in the Workplace, Professional Leadership Strategies, and Professional Success Strategies in Applied Fields. These courses act as bridges between technical knowledge and upper-division professional competencies, helping students translate what they already know into new opportunities.
Her classrooms are designed to reflect the realities of the modern workplace: fast-changing, tech-driven, and deeply collaborative. As students balance work, school, and family responsibilities while advancing through industries increasingly shaped by digital tools, automation, and hybrid work models, Dunlap ensures her teaching keeps pace.
She emphasizes that today's professionals must blend technical proficiency with communication, collaboration, adaptability, and ethical leadership. "Success isn't just about knowing the tools—it's about staying flexible, being proactive, and committing to lifelong learning."
Her courses integrate case studies, workplace simulations, leadership role-play exercises, and scenario-based projects designed to mirror challenges students face in their current roles. Whether leading a team simulation or drafting a technical document modeled after real workplace expectations, students walk away with skills they can apply immediately.
Applied Learning That Sticks
One of Dunlap's greatest strengths is her ability to help students connect academic concepts to their own lived experiences. She regularly invites them to draw from their workplace backgrounds—whether in public service, administration, skilled trades, or management—to ground theory in practice.
In Professional Leadership Strategies, for example, students take on leadership roles within team-based simulations, navigating decision-making challenges in a risk-free environment. In Professional Collaboration and Technology in the Workplace, they practice writing real technical documents and implementing collaborative strategies used across modern organizations.
This approach ensures her teaching isn't abstract—it's actionable. "My goal is to give students the confidence and tools they need to grow in their careers and thrive in dynamic, real-world settings."
Relationships at the Center
Ask Dunlap what she loves most about CPCS, and her answer is immediate: the students.
Her work with working and nontraditional learners has fostered a deep connection to CPCS's mission. She sees herself not only as an instructor but as a partner in her students' success—a steady source of encouragement, direction, and support. "I aim to be a trusted support system, a listening ear, and a cheerleader. It's an honor to walk alongside them on their academic and professional journey."
Their dedication inspires her, especially as many juggle full-time jobs, families, and community commitments while pursuing their degrees.
One student's story in particular stands out: a learner who knew a promotion was waiting the moment he completed his degree. His drive and determination reminded Dunlap why applied learning matters—it changes lives in real time.
Building Stronger Programs for the Future
Currently, Dunlap is focused on strengthening the BAS in Public Management and BAS in Business Office Technology programs. She is actively refining curriculum, enhancing experiential learning opportunities, and ensuring that coursework remains relevant for an evolving workforce.
She is also deeply engaged in advising—helping students align their academic plans with career goals, navigate degree pathways, and build confidence as they prepare for advancement.
Looking ahead, Dunlap sees both fields continuing to evolve through technology integration, data-driven decision-making, and flexible work environments. She believes emotional intelligence, communication, and continuous skill development will be essential for future success. "Leaders of the next decade will need to be adaptable, people-centered, and prepared to integrate both technical and human skills."
It's a challenge she's preparing CPCS students to meet head-on.
A Focus on the Modern Workforce
Both public management and business office technology are fields undergoing rapid change. Dunlap sees this shift daily, as students navigate industries increasingly shaped by digital tools, automation, and hybrid work models.
Her courses don't just teach skills—they prepare students to lead in environments that demand flexibility, innovation, and continuous learning. By integrating real workplace challenges into her teaching, she ensures students aren't just ready for their next role—they're ready to excel in it.
A Vision for Student-Centered Growth
What sets Dunlap apart is her unwavering belief in the potential of her students. Every course, assignment, and advising meeting is rooted in the understanding that learners bring rich experience to the table—and that their backgrounds are assets, not obstacles.
In a world where workplaces are constantly changing, Dunlap stands firmly behind the idea that education should empower, uplift, and transform. Her work at CPCS does exactly that.
For students in the BAS in Public Management and BAS in Business Office Technology programs, Kali Dunlap offers more than instruction—she offers a pathway to confidence, advancement, and long-term success.
Kali Dunlap serves as Instructor and Program Coordinator for the BAS in Public Management and BAS in Business Office Technology programs. Her courses include Introduction to Applied Science, Professional Collaboration and Technology in the Workplace, Professional Leadership Strategies, and Professional Success Strategies in Applied Fields. To learn more about Kali or CPCS programs, visit cpcs.msstate.edu or contact her at k.dunlap@msstate.edu.