LSUS Degrees: BS in Secondary Mathematics Education in 1993; MED in Administration in 2003
What I do now: Associate Vice Chancellor, LSUS
About my job: I serve as an advisor to the Provost and assist in managing the academic programs and services of LSUS. I focus on long-range planning for Academic Affairs as well as LSUS as a whole. In conjunction with other campus leaders, I lead the strategic planning and assessment efforts for the University, and oversee all institutional research and assessment activities. In addition to the above duties, I drive efforts that link the University with the community with the purpose of fulfilling the University’s mission. This includes initiatives in K-12 schools.
How I got to LSUS: I was a military child and my father was stationed at Barksdale Air Force Base. LSUS was a good fit for my educational goals.
Fond Memories of LSUS: The relationships that I developed with numerous faculty members, something I know would not have been possible at a large institution. I still see faculty today who remember my name and with whom I can talk about current topics in education.
LSUS faculty who helped me: Dr. Rick Mabry and Mr. Conway Link brought out my love of mathematics. Dr. Gale Bridger was one of my graduate professors and a mentor. It has been an honor to follow her career path, which includes my current and previous position at LSU Shreveport. One thing they all have in common is a demand for success from their students.
How LSUS helped me succeed: The education I received at both the undergraduate and graduate levels prepared me for life and career. LSU Shreveport promotes a culture of excellence that pushes you to reach your maximum potential.
Advice to college-bound students: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
Advice to someone who wants to enter my field: I truly had no idea when I entered the teaching profession how many doors could open as long as I remained focused on being a life-long learner. Because of that, my advice is never to close a door on an opportunity and always keep learning.
Tips on choosing a major or career: Do not think that the major you choose when you enroll will be the major you end up receiving a degree in. I declared three different majors while attending LSUS. Look into the options and talk to other students and your advisors about what interests you and what career paths or graduate school options are possible.
My toughest professional challenge: Teaching mathematics to a group of students who do not share my love of the subject.
My toughest personal challenge: Raising children is by far the most demanding yet rewarding “job” I have ever had. My middle child, Zachary, is autistic, which adds a new dimension to parenting, but the challenge came before I decided to turn it all over to God and let him guide my every decision. Once I did that, the challenge of raising children, especially Zachary, became a blessing.
Successes (honors, awards, etc.) in my life:
· LSUS Outstanding Service Award, 2008
· Recipient of the Louisiana State University in Shreveport Deans’ Award, April 2006
· Inducted into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, April 2006
· Recipient of the Master of Education Award, Louisiana State University in Shreveport, 2003
· Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching Nominee, 2003
· High School Parish Teacher of The Year, Bossier Parish School Board, 2000
I’ve learned this from life: Learning is a gift that should not be taken for granted and renewed often.
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