Jillian Gesualdi
Biography
Contact me for:
- Inclusive course design and Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
- Neurodiversity-affirming teaching practices
- Learner-centered course design and authentic assessment
Prior to joining Brown, Jillian was an instructional designer at Johnson & Wales University for eight years, where she collaborated with faculty to design and enhance online, hybrid, and face-to-face courses while supporting the integration of inclusive teaching practices and educational technologies. She has also served as an adjunct faculty member at Johnson & Wales University and the Community College of Rhode Island, teaching undergraduate courses in both online and in-person formats. Earlier in her career, Jillian worked as a K–12 special educator and reading specialist, providing experiences that shaped her understanding of intentional design, accessible instruction, and evidence-based approaches to teaching and learning.
Jillian's work is grounded in the belief that effective learning environments are designed with learner variability in mind. Beyond higher education, she serves as the Executive Director of East End Theatre & Performing Arts, a nonprofit organization she co-founded in 2018 that provides inclusive, accessible, and high-quality arts education for youth and young adults in underserved communities. Through her professional and community-based work, she is committed to expanding educational opportunities and fostering environments where learners can engage, grow, and thrive.
Jillian holds a Master of Education from Rhode Island College and is certified as an Advanced Experiential Educator through the Institute for Experiential Learning. Her research and professional practice examine how inclusive, learner-centered approaches - including Universal Design for Learning, experiential learning, and neurodiversity-affirming practices - can support more equitable and engaging educational experiences. She has presented her work nationally at The Teaching Professor Conference and the International Society for Exploring Teaching and Learning (ISETL), and her ongoing interests include faculty development, educational leadership, and inclusive practice.