Transforming Complex Psychological Concepts into Dynamic Learning

Through experiential learning and real-world applications, Dr. Alicia MacKay makes complex psychological concepts more accessible and engaging for students. Her journey from the research field to higher education underscores her dedication to fostering a dynamic learning environment.

Since 2008, Alicia MacKay, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Psychology, has been shaping the minds of countless TCC students. Despite her initial focus on psychological research, a move to Tulsa led her to TCC, where she found her true calling in teaching.

“My path to teaching in higher education was not a planned one,” Dr. MacKay admits, who grew up in Rose Hill, KS. “Life took an unexpected turn when I moved to Tulsa with my husband. After applying to various jobs, TCC was the first to respond and offer me a position. I discovered that my research experience translated well into the classroom, allowing me to make complex psychological concepts more accessible and engaging for my students.”

Dr. MacKay has become known for her innovative teaching methods and deep commitment to student success. Her approach is characterized by experiential learning and real-world applications, which resonate with TCC’s diverse student body.

"Seeing my students’ determination to succeed despite their many challenges has been incredibly inspiring,” adds Dr. MacKay. 

“It's made me realize that my role extends beyond just teaching psychology; it's about providing support, fostering an appreciation for learning, and helping students achieve their goals. In essence, my students' resilience and growth have been the biggest motivators in my decision to continue my career in higher education.”

From a young age, she was captivated by the complexities of human behavior and the intricate workings of the mind. “This curiosity hasn't waned over the years; if anything, it's grown stronger,” Dr. MacKay shares. “In our increasingly complex world, understanding why people believe what they believe, how they process information, and how they make decisions is more crucial than ever. Psychology offers tools to unravel these cognitive processes, and my love for the field stems from an insatiable desire to understand the 'why' behind the human experience.”

Dedication Beyond the Classroom

Beyond teaching, Dr. MacKay has been a pivotal member of the General Education Committee, where she served as the General Education Coordinator. This role provided her with the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues from various disciplines, such as English, Mathematics, Science and the Arts, enriching her own teaching and broadening her perspective on education.

“The cross-disciplinary insights and friendships I gained from this committee have enriched my teaching and my understanding of TCC as a whole,” she reflects.

Moreover, as co-chair of the Institutional Review Board since 2016, Dr. MacKay has been instrumental in establishing TCC’s first comprehensive IRB policy. This work ensures that all research involving human subjects at the College is conducted ethically and responsibly.

“When I took on this role, TCC didn’t have a formal IRB policy or procedures,” she recalls. “It was a significant responsibility to create these from the ground up, but it’s deeply satisfying to know that our work protects the rights and well-being of research participants.”

Excellence Awarded

In 2024, Dr. MacKay was honored with a TCC Service Excellence Award. In her nomination, one colleague said, “In the classroom, both physical and online, Alicia is regarded as an outstanding educator who establishes a rapport with students that fosters academic growth and personal development...Students consistently praise her responsiveness, setting a ridiculously high standard for faculty accessibility and support...She is widely regarded as one of our most supportive and conscientious colleagues, consistently going above and beyond to contribute to the College's culture of excellence.”

Reflecting on this honor, Dr. MacKay shares, “Being recognized with this award is humbling, but I don’t see it as a sign that I have all the answers. The biggest lesson I’ve learned at TCC is to always remain a student yourself. My students and colleagues are my greatest teachers.”

Words of Wisdom

Dr. MacKay’s advice to TCC students and employees is simple: “Never stop learning. Ask questions, seek help, and lean on the community around you. At TCC, we’re all learners and teachers, growing together.”

Life Outside of TCC

Outside her professional life, Dr. MacKay is a devoted mother of three and an avid traveler. She and her family aim to visit all 50 states in the U.S. When she’s not planning their next family trip, she finds relaxation and creative fulfillment in watercolor painting and gardening.