Shane O'Hara Sr.

I was born and raised in a small paper town in northern New Hampshire and attempted college twice, but was never able to find happiness there. I enlisted in the US Army in 2000 and shipped off for basic and advanced training. The Army helped me discover myself and taught me to become a better person. I received extensive satellite, radar and mathematical training from the government. This training not only allowed me to travel the world, but built a solid information technology foundation. This real-world knowledge and training prepared me for civilian life where I have continued with my self-taught learning.

I joined the University of Southern Maine in December 2010 as an Online Learning Support Specialist charged with Tier II Blackboard support (in conjunction with the Help Desk) and researching/incubating/implementing new emerging technologies appropriate for online learning. I was the recipient of the 2012 Emerging Professional Staff Award, which recognizes outstanding promise for continued excellence and achievement with less than five years of professional experience in higher education. I have grown immensely in my understanding of online and continuing education. I feel very passionate about providing the best experience for online students and adult learners.

I am married to my wonderful wife, Jennifer and together we have 5 children - a his, hers and ours family. I cannot forget to mention our miniature dachshunds, Otto, Oliver and Odin. In my spare time (ha - do I really have some?), I am a die-hard New England sports fanatic especially for the New England Patriots and Boston Red Sox.

I've also started working towards my undergraduate degree through the University of Southern Maine's "Leadership and Organizational Studies" (LOS) online degree program.

I look forward to connecting and collaborating with like-minded individuals.