Employee Spotlight: James Tyree, Experiential Learning Designer at Bryan University

At Bryan University, we believe our success is built on the strength of our team, and this month, we’re shining the spotlight on James Tyree, an Experiential Learning Designer. 

James has been part of the BU family for a year and a half, with two decades of experience in higher education in his background. In his role at BU, James works with program directors and other designers to build new courses and make revisions to current courses. His overall goal is to enhance the learning experience of BU students. 

When he found BU, James said he really related to the university’s principles, like our five core values. “You know, deliver delight every time; trust and be trusted,” he said. “If you’re joining BU, you’re going to join a great culture.” 

Before joining the BU team, James worked in K-12 and higher education, at institutions that include Tiffin University and Bowling Green State University. In line with his passion for higher education, James recently earned his doctoral degree and officially graduated this month.  

James finds a lot of inspiration from his team members, like his supervisor Shawn Adams, Executive Director of Experiential Learning, and other designers like Emily Cox, a Senior Experiential Learning Designer. Outside of working with such a great team, James said he’s constantly motivated just knowing what a big difference the work he does makes in the experience students have at BU. 

“What I do makes our classes better, our programs better. And ultimately, that has an impact on the students, and that ripple effect reaches out to more and more and more,” he said.   

Outside of work, James is a sports enthusiast, and even boasts several accolades from his time playing football and baseball, as well as coaching. He also golfs as often as he can, and he enjoys just spending time with his friends and family. He’s also a huge Elvis fan and loves learning more history about The King. 

James is an open book who’s loved the time he’s spent at BU so far, and he looks forward to the continued impact he’ll be able to make for students. “I want to continue to work with the program directors and continue to make our courses and programs better and always keep in mind the student experience and increase student engagement.” 

He’s also excited about the possibilities earning his doctorate opens up for him, and he would love to explore opportunities as an adjunct faculty member in addition to his role at BU. 

His advice for anyone just starting their career is to be a sponge, make connections, and take the hard times in stride. 

“Be a sponge for knowledge. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Keep your drive, you know. Keep working and looking for other opportunities for professional development. Grow your professional circle of contacts because it’s always great to know everybody,” he said. “You’re going to get knocked down. You got to pick yourself back up and get right back at it. Don’t get discouraged because some positions are more challenging than others. You don’t know as much as you think going in, you know. Be humble and be available to learn.”  

The Bryan University Employee Spotlight is an initiative that recognizes employees monthly. All employees of Bryan University are eligible. Learn more about Careers at Bryan University.