Editor’s Note: This is part of a series introducing various members of the campus community to Eastern for a better understanding of those who maintain the operations of the university.

Where did you receive your degrees from? 

Undergrad from NIU (Dekalb); Masters from Baker University (Kansas)

If we saw your music playlist, what would the top five songs be? 

Top five artists might be Stevie Ray Vaughn, Danielle Nicole Schnebelen, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Rolling Stones and Eric Clapton. 

Where is your favorite place on campus? 

The Secret Garden

What is a place in Charleston you think everyone should know about?

The Charleston Lake with its hiking trails, fishing, boating, etc.   

Who is someone you admire in your field and why?

Ashton Applewhite – turns ideas about aging upside down and refuses to accept age discrimination, which is an issue of equity.

Why did you go into the field you’re in? 

Have always loved to learn and share it with others.   

What positions have you held during your career in higher education?

  I worked with the Bachelor of Gen. Studies degree program for a year, and then accepted the Academy of Lifelong Learning leadership role.  My career (prior to EIU) in operations management and the master’s degree were good preparation for running a diverse program.

What are the most rewarding aspects of your current position? 

First, meeting and getting to know the lifelong learners in our area!  Attending the Academy’s learning events are always fun and interesting because I get to see like-minded people and I love to learn about many subject areas.   

What are the most challenging aspects of your position? 

Planning relevant, interesting educational events that appeal to a very broad group of people.  Finding venues for our events that meet the needs of our market.  Managing a small budget and marketing what we offer are also challenging with that small budget. 

What advice would you give to students in your department for their college careers?

Take the paths that compel you to keep learning.  If you love your work, it makes your work life so much more meaningful.   

What is your number one goal for your students? 

Stay curious – learn something new and share it – keep your brain active.

The News Staff can be reached at 581-2812 or at dennewsdesk@gmail.com.