Contact Information
Bio
Major Melissa Hemphill is an IMA Reservist and Senior Instructor of Biology, Department of Biology, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colorado. She assists with teaching courses, faculty development, course design, and academic administrative tasks.
Major Hemphill received her commission and degree from the U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colorado, in 2011. Prior to becoming a Reservist, she served as an active duty Instructor of Biology and Executive Officer where she was selected for Course Director for the Microbial Diversity major’s course and a special topics Eating Psychology course. As Executive Officer, she led the administrative section for the U.S. Air Force Academy’s 4th largest major. As a flight commander in the 505th Communications Squadron, Hurlburt Field, Florida, Major Hemphill led a team of military and government civilians to provide event communications planning, project management, information assurance, and warehouse operations for the Command and Control community.
Major Hemphill separated from Active Duty to return to school for her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at Baylor University, Waco, Texas. She is expected to graduate in December 2023 and continue to serve the Air Force as a Physical Therapist.
Education
Doctor of Physical Therapy, Baylor University, Waco, Texas (projected graduation December 2023)
USAFA Dean’s Teaching Certificate, USAFA, Colorado (2019)
Cyberspace 200, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio (2017)
Organizational Leadership School, Maxwell AFB, Alabama (2017)
Undergraduate Cyberspace Training, Keesler AFB, Mississippi (2013)
Master of Science, Biology, University of West Florida, Pensacola, Florida (2013)
Bachelor of Science, Biology, US Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colorado (2011)
Professional Experience
IMA Reservist and Senior Instructor, Department of Biology, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colorado (March 2020 – Present)
Executive Officer and Senior Instructor, Department of Biology, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colorado (June 2016 – March 2020)
Plans and Programs Flight Commander, 505th Communications Squadron, Hurlburt Field, Florida (December 2013 – June 2016)
Cyberspace Student, Keesler AFB, Mississippi (June 2013 – December 2013)
AFIT Civilian Institution Graduate Student, Pensacola, Florida (August 2011 – June 2013)
Honors & Awards
Excellence in Advocacy Award: Controversial Issue Campaign (2022)
Meritorious Service Medal (2020)
William F. Goodner Award for Teaching Excellence (2018)
Company Grade Officer of the Year (2015, 2018)
Undergraduate Cyberspace Training Outstanding Contributor (2013)
Top Graduate for Physical Education Average (2011)
Outstanding Strength and Conditioning Athlete of the Year (2011)
Most Valuable Track and Field Competitor (2008)
Research and Scholarly Interests
Women's Health, postpartum return to sport
Microbiology, influenza