Program: Computer Information Technology
Education/Industry Certifications: Associate of Applied Science degree in Data Processing
Has Taught at SCC Since: 1980-1982, and again late 1984 to present
Years of Work Experience Outside SCC: 2
Describe your teaching philosophy.
I believe that providing organized course and reference materials is only a small part of teaching. Most important is to provide experiences that allow the student to apply their knowledge to solve problems. This is where the satisfaction of learning takes place for the student and provides them with the confidence they need to enter the workforce.
Why did you decide to teach at a community college?
SCC is my alma mater, and I know there are tremendous career opportunities that an education from SCC can provide.
What can prospective students expect when they enroll in your program?
They can expect to find a team of instructors who truly want to see them succeed. Learning takes time, dedication and hard work on the part of the student, and finding help with a challenging topic in a course is as easy as stopping by an instructor’s office for a few minutes.
What experiences outside of SCC do you bring to the classroom/laboratory that enhance student learning?
Over the years I have built relationships with employers, many of whom were former students of mine, and other program alumni who provide feedback on industry needs and employment opportunities for our graduates. I have always enjoyed working with people through many volunteer experiences in my community and church, and I hope to also promote and encourage relationship building in my students' minds.
What advice do you have for students pursuing a degree in your program?
Take responsibility for your own learning. This involves using your time wisely, being organized and prepared. You should never give up on a task until you not only know how to solve it but also why the solution is appropriate. Seek assistance from your instructors if you are struggling and do this before it is too late for us to help.
What do you enjoy most about working with students?
The smile and excitement on a student’s face when they have successfully completed an assignment or project that they felt was rather challenging.
What is the best part about being an SCC faculty member?
The sense of belonging to a team of people whose purpose is to guide others, our students, to successful and fulfilling careers.
What has been your proudest moment as an instructor?
Over these many years of teaching there have been numerous occasions when I have received emails or been approached by the familiar face of a former student wanting to say thanks and share about their accomplishments, their families and other aspects of their lives after SCC. To have been a small part of those stories is pretty awesome.
What do you like to do when you’re not teaching?
I have four children, six including two spouses, and three grandchildren who I love to spend time with either at our farm or on special outings. Many weekends find our home filled with family meals and laughter. I also love my vegetable garden and flowers.
What would students be surprised to know about you?
My hometown is the tiny village of Surprise, Nebraska, and I am now a cattle producer’s wife who is responsible for farm recordkeeping and chasing an occasional stray cow.
Is there anything you’d like to add?
Like most people who have been with SCC for many years, I thought I would be teaching at the College just a few years and move on to another organization. I did that, but was then drawn back to SCC when a teaching position opened up in my area of computer programming. I have found this to be “home” to me and I continue to enjoy the many students and experiences that teaching provides.