10/13/2020 10:37:16 AMAs an instructional designer, Velvette Laurence regularly helps professors at the University of Houston College of Education enhance their courses to keep students engaged. When COVID-19 forced all classes to go virtual in the spring, Laurence’s support became even more important. “It’s a challenge, but the benefit is instructors are learning to be more flexible,” Laurence said. “This online environment has helped them get to know their students on a more personal level.” Laurence began her career at the College 16 years ago as a web developer.