Our
vision
Kelbert University aspires to be a nationally recognized institution in online higher education, distinguished by the quality of its programs, the success of its graduates, and its commitment to making education genuinely accessible. We are building something with a long view: an institution where academic standards are never compromised, where distance education is delivered with the same seriousness and rigor as any other model, and where the communities we serve can point to Kelbert University as a place that opened doors.
our
mission
Kelbert University delivers online, high-quality degree programs that meet students where they are and prepare them for where they want to go. We are committed to removing barriers to higher education, holding our programs to rigorous academic standards, and equipping a diverse, multilingual community of learners with the knowledge and skills to advance professionally and lead purposefully. Through innovation in how we teach and an unwavering focus on student outcomes, we measure our success by the success of the people we serve.
Administration
Our History
Kelbert University was founded 2025 in Miami Lakes, Florida, to expand access to high-quality higher education for working adults and driven professionals. The University was established on the belief that access to education should not depend on geography, schedule, or circumstance. Kelbert University is licensed by the Florida Commission for Independent Education and delivers its programs through distance and hybrid learning models, serving a diverse, multilingual community of learners across its five degree programs.
Robert kelbert, ESQ.
Robert Kelbert is the President of Kelbert University and a co-founder and owner of Founders Law. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and earned his Juris Doctor from law school, bringing together expertise in global affairs, law, and organizational leadership.
As President, he leads the strategic vision, institutional growth, and operational oversight of the university. His background in international relations and legal practice informs his approach to higher education leadership, governance, and institutional development.
FOUNDER & PRESIDENT
kelly kelbert, ESq.
Kelly Kelbert is the Dean of Kelbert University and a co-founder of Founders Law, where she serves as an owner and legal professional. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Journalism before completing her Juris Doctor at law school, combining strong communication skills with a foundation in legal analysis and advocacy.
In her role as Dean, she provides academic leadership, supports faculty development, and helps guide curriculum and institutional standards. Her work reflects a commitment to academic excellence, ethical leadership, and the long-term mission of the university.
Vice President of Academic Affairs & Dean of Students
Director of Admissionirene vega , M.a.
Irene Vega serves as both a Professor and the Director of Admissions at Kelbert University. She holds a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in History, as well as a graduate certificate in National Security.
She is currently beginning her PhD in Educational Leadership at the University of Miami, with a focus on higher education leadership and institutional development. Her academic background centers on Renaissance history, with particular emphasis on social structures, gender roles, and power dynamics in early modern Europe. In her administrative role, she oversees admissions strategy, student outreach, and enrollment operations, contributing to the university’s growth and student success.
Our Team
Merlin Dominguez, M.A / M.ED
I have been an English teacher for more than five years, serving in public and private schools as well as alternative education programs. I earned my bachelor’s degree in English with a concentration in Writing & Rhetoric from Florida International University (FIU). After my first year of teaching, I completed my master’s degree in educational leadership, followed by a second master’s degree in English from Grand Canyon University. I am a Florida-certified educator with an ESOL endorsement (English for Speakers of Other Languages) and have served as a New Teacher Induction Coach. I am also currently pursuing my Doctor of Education (EdD) in Curriculum & Instruction to further expand my expertise in educational design, leadership, and instructional impact. I believe that anyone can become a skilled writer when equipped with a solid framework and the freedom to explore their ideas. I pride myself on building rapport and fostering a classroom community where students feel understood, valued, and challenged to think beyond the surface. I encourage inquisitive minds, much like my own, to push deeper, analyze further, and refine their voice.
English Professor
Omar García-Rodriguez, DrPH, MS
I'm originally from Puerto Rico, but in 2008 I moved to Florida, where I reside with my wife and two daughters. Some of my hobbies and interests are any STEM related activities, and learning about, watching shows and traveling to places rich in Colonial Era and Civil War American history; . Academically and professionally, I have a Ph.D. (University of Florida), and a MS degree (University of Puerto Rico), both in the area of theoretical physics.
I also have a double-major BS degree in physics and mathematics from the University of Puerto Rico. I have been teaching in one way of another since 2006. I have taught mathematics and physics at various institutions at the college and university levels, both in-person and online formats. I'm very excited to help students navigate through their college mathematics journey in any way I can.
Science Professor
Mathematics ProfessorPedro Mora, B.S. , Physics/ Mathematics, Ph.D
Dr. Elizabeth Hincapié, LL.M. is an accomplished international legal executive with extensive experience in corporate governance, compliance, and cross-border operations. She currently serves as Head of Legal for EMEA at Harsco Rail and has held senior roles including General Counsel, Company Secretary, and Compliance Officer at Toshiba Railway Europe GmbH. Dr. Hincapié earned her LL.M. from the University of Heidelberg and completed postgraduate legal studies in Spain. Admitted to practice in Germany, Spain, and Colombia, she brings a global perspective to her work and is recognized among leading in-house counsel in Europe.
Dr. Luis Gamez, DCJ
Professor of Legal Studies
For over 25 years, I have taught Criminal Justice, Legal Studies, Sociology and related courses at various colleges and universities throughout the United States in multiple formats (e.g. traditional brick-and-mortar, virtual and hybrid). Faculty Member of Alpha Phi Sigma, Mu Zeta Chapter. Additionally, I have worked as a licensed Private Investigator in the State of Florida.
dr. colton Nguyen, ph.d
Professor of Business Law, Ethics and Values
Dr. Nguyen is a human rights activist and advocate from Hanoi, Vietnam. He has earned his PhD in Business Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, a Masters in Sports Industry Management from Georgetown University and a Masters in Public Health from Yale University. His professional career centers around being a 501c3 Founder, a Multi Business Owner and a Strategic Management and Social Impact Consultant. Through his efforts, he has won awards such as 40 under 40 Leadership Award, Resilience Award, Rising DMV Activist, Engendered Spirit Award, and Rising Leadership Award. As a result of his online advocacy, he has also competed on NBC’s America Ninja Warrior. As a nonprofit and social impact leader, his work and research have always had one core priority. Currently, Dr. Nguyen is focused on publishing about health disparities, animal and human rights.
Geannina Burgos, JD, MBA
Law Studies & Paralegal Professor
For more than a decade, Ms. Burgos has represented plaintiffs from across the U.S. in disability insurance and ERISA cases in both state and federal courts. Born in Chile and raised in Miami, Florida, she is a former classically trained dancer and first-generation lawyer who has dedicated her entire legal career to representing the disabled when private insurance companies refuse to pay their disability benefits. Before becoming an attorney, Ms. Burgos worked as a freelance journalist for national publications, including the New York Times, and ran a multi-site non-profit arts education organization for several years. Ms. Burgos began her legal teaching career in 2018 and has instructed adult students at undergraduate and graduate levels in numerous formats (in-person, hybrid, and online). She currently sits on multiple local arts and legal boards. In addition to her law degree, Ms. Burgos obtained a Bachelor’s in Mass Communication and a Master of Business Administration.
Dr. Christina Hidalgo, DBA
Professor of Business, Human Resources & Finance
Dr. Christina Hidalgo is a Miami-based business executive, consultant, and graduate professor with over 20 years of experience across finance, banking, human resources, and organizational leadership. Dr. Hidalgo holds a Doctorate in Business Administration and a graduate degrees in Human Resources Management. She has served in senior leadership roles including Controller, CFO-style consultant, and People Operations executive. Her work spans healthcare, financial services, technology, and professional services organizations. In the classroom, Dr. Hidalgo teaches graduate-level courses in Human Resources, Compensation, Financial Planning, Leadership, Organizational Behavior, and Business Strategy. Dr. Hidalgo is deeply committed to developing ethical, strategic, and emotionally intelligent leaders.
Janelle Gonzalez, M.PSY
Admissions Manager and Psychology Professor
Janelle Gonzalez earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Florida International University and her Master of Science in Psychology with a specialization in Forensic Psychology from Grand Canyon University. With over 5 years of experience in higher education, she is dedicated to helping students navigate their academic journeys and achieve their educational goals. As an Admissions Manager and Psychology Instructor at Kelbert University, Janelle is passionate about creating an engaging, supportive, and meaningful learning environment. In addition to her work in higher education, she is also an entrepreneur, bringing practical business experience and a real-world perspective to the classroom.
Dr. Claudia araiza, pHd
Microeconomics Professor
Dr. Claudia Araiza is an economist and higher education leader serving as Adjunct Faculty for Kelbert University. With a PhD in Economics from Claremont Graduate University and a strong background in economic research, university administration, and international trade analysis, she brings extensive academic and industry expertise to her teaching role. Her early career research background spans major institutional projects involving high-profile federal agencies, including the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and the National Science Foundation (NSF), through collaborations with organizations like the UCLA Medical Group, Claremont Graduate University, and the Clark University-Marsh Institute. Beyond her teaching duties, she actively contributes to public academic discussions, presenting research on complex economic topics such as income shocks and natural disasters, as well as examining demographic and market transformations within the global IT industry.
Professor of Business & Mass Media CommunicationsElizabeth Hincapie, LL.M., DBA
Omar García-Rodriguez, DrPH, MS is a Senior Biostatistician and Bioinformatics Scientist at the University of Miami’s Bascom Palmer Eye Institute and an Adjunct Professor of Biological and Environmental Sciences at Kelbert University. He holds a Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) in Environmental Health and a Master of Science in Epidemiology from the University of Puerto Rico. Dr. García-Rodriguez has extensive experience in genetics, epidemiology, environmental health, and health disparities research, with over 25 peer-reviewed publications spanning ophthalmology, cancer, trauma, and public health. His research focuses on genomic analyses, polygenic risk scores, and advancing research in minority and underserved populations. At Kelbert University, he serves as an Adjunct Professor, teaching Biology and Environmental Science in both English and Spanish. He integrates real-world public health applications, environmental exposures, and health equity into his courses and is deeply committed to student mentorship, interdisciplinary learning, and preparing students for careers in health and science.
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Visit Us
5979 Northwest 151st Street Suite 210,
Miami Lakes, FL 33014
Hours
Monday–Friday
9am–5pm
Phone
(724) 723-8283