What is your teaching discipline?
Administrative Support Technology
What brought you to the area?
I have been in the Hampton Roads area my entire life only living in three different cities/counties.
What is your teaching philosophy?
I want to come along side students and facilitate the learning process. I like to challenge students to perform at their best and encourage them along the way. I enjoy participation from the students in my classes, and I aim to facilitate active learning in all classes.
What do you hope your students take away from your courses?
Real world knowledge and skills they can use in the workplace. Confidence in themselves and their skill-set. I love to see students' confidence grow as they master new skills.
What do you like to do on the weekends?
I love spending time with my family. My husband and I have two daughters and love spending time as a family. I love to see the world through their eyes. Whether it is helping them paint masterpieces, baking cookies, playing dress-up, or having "dates" at some of their favorite places.
What is the most memorable place you have traveled to?
I love road trips and experiencing the local flair wherever I travel. My most memorable trip was when I convinced my husband and sister to go white water rafting in the Gauley River in West Virginia. We went on a day-long rafting trip that was exciting, challenging, and thrilling. We made so many memories together, and at the end of the day, we could not believe we had survived.
What is in your refrigerator right now?
Leftovers, fruits, cheese, milk, and lots of kid food.
What makes you laugh out loud?
What makes you laugh out loud? My kids! Also sarcasm, funny memes, and YouTube videos. Bash, the entertainer definitely makes me laugh; his laugh is infectious!
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Personally--being a mom. Professionally--My associate degree in Administrative Support Technology from Thomas Nelson. When I enrolled at Thomas Nelson, I was a high school dropout with a GED that had worked several years in less than desirable jobs and was looking for a way to get a good job. What I found at Thomas Nelson was so much more than that. The faculty challenged me, encouraged me, believed in me, and made a huge difference for this first generation college student. I know that I would not be where I am today if it hadn't been for Thomas Nelson's dedicated faculty and staff. I am honored to now serve as a faculty member in the program that made such a difference in my life.
What is your greatest extravagance?
I am not a very extravagant person, but my current extravagance is probably Starbucks. I will usually only get it when I have a gift card. Espresso keeps me going. Other than caffeine, I do enjoy relaxing with spa time.
Who is your hero?
Personally, would be my dad. He worked from a very young age and was always a caregiver and provider for those he loved. He just recently passed away, and there is not a doubt in my mind that he is the best hero I could have. He worked hard to provide for his family, yet still made time to be there for us. He believed that I could do anything and was always there to offer encouragement. Professionally, my students. I am constantly amazed by the challenges they overcome just to get to class. Their sheer grit and endurance are inspiring. I am so thankful to take part in their academic experience.