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    Gillian C Francis, MSc,BSc

    • Demonstrator
    • School of Medicine
      • Basic Sciences
        • Academic Enhancement Services
    Gillian Francis headshot
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    Bio

    I am a higher education professional with over 18 years of experience, dedicated to advancing student success, strengthening instructional practice, and improving educational outcomes through evidence-informed, student-centered approaches. My career spans student support, instructional leadership, and academic program coordination, with the last several years focused on higher education as a Student Support Coordinator and educator across programs.

    I currently coordinate and manage a peer-led instruction program for the School of Arts and Sciences and pre-clinical students, while also teaching in the Preclinical Learning Strategies course and contributing to the Master of Education program. My work is grounded in integrating instructional technology, data-informed decision-making, and collaborative learning models to enhance student engagement and achievement.

    I hold a Master of Educational Leadership, Management, and Emerging Technologies, which has strengthened my ability to bridge leadership practice with innovative educational design. I am committed to continuous learning and am currently exploring advanced professional pathways to further expand my impact in higher education leadership.

    My professional focus includes student success initiatives, academic support systems, instructional innovation, and leadership development within educational institutions. I am especially committed to creating equitable, supportive, and high-impact learning environments that empower both students and educators to thrive.

    Professional Philosophy

    My professional philosophy is rooted in the belief that education is most powerful when it is intentional, inclusive, and responsive to learners’ needs. I believe that every student has the capacity to succeed when provided with the right structures, support systems, and opportunities for meaningful engagement.

    I approach my work through a growth-oriented and reflective lens, recognizing that effective leadership requires both humility and adaptability. I value data-informed decision-making, but I also prioritize the human dimension of education: listening deeply, building trust, and understanding the lived experiences of students and colleagues.

    Central to my philosophy is the idea that learning is a shared responsibility. As educators and leaders, we are not only facilitators of knowledge but also designers of environments that foster curiosity, resilience, and self-efficacy. I am committed to cultivating spaces where collaboration is encouraged, voices are valued, and continuous improvement is embedded in practice.

    I also believe that educational innovation must be purposeful. Whether through instructional technology, peer-led learning models, or emerging tools such as artificial intelligence, innovation should always serve to enhance access, equity, and student success, not replace the essential human connections at the heart of learning.

    Ultimately, my philosophy is guided by a commitment to service, equity, and excellence in education. I strive to lead in ways that empower others, strengthen institutional impact, and contribute meaningfully to the transformation of higher education.

    Research & Interests

    • The Impact of Peer-Led Instruction in the School of Arts and Sciences at St. George’s University

    Academic Degrees

    • Msc. Educational Leadership, Management and Emerging Technologies
    • BSc. Management and Tourism & Hospitality Management

    Course Teachings

    • Facilitation in Medical and Veterinary Education
    • Master of Education Program

    Institutional Services & Committees

    • Chair - Facilitator Recognition and Professional Development Committee

    fun Fact

    I went from teaching French to education leadership: same mission, just fewer verb conjugations and accents to correct 🙂