Program: Associate Degree Nursing
Education/Industry Certifications: Master of Science degree in Nursing
Has Taught at SCC Since: 2003
Years of Work Experience Outside SCC: 23 years medical surgical and intensive care nursing
Describe your teaching philosophy.
The way I teach is very much based on principles of adult learning and active learning. I believe I facilitate student discovery and learning. I help them understand content, and then help them put it all together. In the process, I hope that I inspire a desire for life-long learning in students.
Why did you decide to teach at a community college?
I did not really “decide” to teach at a community college, it happened more from chance. I had always loved orienting and precepting new staff in every job I held as a nurse, and knew that someday I wanted to teach. I saw a job posting for an instructor in the ADN program here at SCC, applied, and was hired. Once I started working here, I quickly came to appreciate working at the community college level. I love teaching in a smaller program where I have the chance to really get to know students as individuals.
What can prospective students expect when they enroll in your program?
First of all, they can expect to work hard. Our program is very fast-paced, and students need to keep on top of their studies. If they get behind, it is extremely difficult to catch up. Having said that, they will have faculty who are dedicated to their success and will go above and beyond to help them if the students themselves are putting in the effort.
What experiences outside of SCC do you bring to the classroom/laboratory that enhance student learning?
I worked for 23 years in a variety of cities and clinical settings before coming to SCC. This has given me a broad understanding of what it takes to be a nurse, and the experiences I bring into the classroom can help students understand what I am teaching. My husband and I have also adopted three children from the foster care program in Nebraska. This has helped me be more sensitive to some student situations and problems than I would have been before fostering and adopting.
What advice do you have for students pursuing a degree in your program?
Make the most of learning in the program prerequisite courses, as they will have to apply that knowledge in their nursing courses. Learn to prioritize and to manage time well, as the program is intense and fast-paced.
What do you enjoy most about working with students?
I love their eagerness to learn and the questions they ask that keep me on my toes. The best part, though, is the “aha” moments they have!
What is the best part about being an SCC faculty member?
The people I work with. The staff, other faculty and students have to be some of the best around.
What has been your proudest moment as an instructor?
Every six months when we have the ADN Pinning Ceremony for the senior students about to graduate. I look out on the students and see their growth, their eagerness to become RNs and to continue on in their education and I know they will deliver quality nursing care to the people of Nebraska and beyond. Some day they may even take care of me!
What do you like to do when you’re not teaching?
First and foremost, spending time with my family: my husband, six children and three grandchildren. I also like to do gardening, needlework and read.
What would students be surprised to know about you?
I was a tomboy growing up. My best friend and I were definitely more comfortable playing just about any sport with the guys than playing dolls with the girls! I couldn’t appreciate the colors pink and purple until we adopted our daughter.