My Leadership Philosophy
"The function of leadership is to produce more leaders, not more followers."— Ralph Nader
Leadership is not about authority; it is about service. I believe in servant leadership, where the needs of students, faculty, and staff come first, and in transformational leadership, where vision, empowerment, and continuous growth drive institutional success. As a leader in Iowa’s community college system, my role is to foster an environment where educators and students alike can thrive—ensuring our programs remain relevant, innovative, and responsive to workforce demands.
At the heart of my leadership is people. I take time to listen, understand individual motivations, and provide the support and resources needed for professional and personal development. When faculty feel valued and supported, they are better equipped to inspire students. When students feel seen and encouraged, they persist and succeed. I strive to create a culture of mentorship, where growth is mutual, and learning never stops.
I lead with vision and adaptability, understanding that education is dynamic and must evolve to meet the needs of both learners and industries. Through strategic collaboration, data-informed decision-making, and a commitment to innovation, I work to ensure our CTE programs prepare students for meaningful careers while addressing regional workforce demands.
Effective leadership requires integrity, transparency, and humility. I believe in open communication, fostering trust through honesty, and being accountable for both successes and challenges. I embrace feedback, knowing that the best ideas often come from those closest to the work. I seek to empower those around me, cultivating leadership at all levels by providing opportunities for others to take initiative, contribute, and grow.
Above all, my leadership is driven by a commitment to service and transformation—helping individuals reach their fullest potential while advancing the mission of community colleges. My role is to remove barriers, build bridges, and create pathways for success. Whether supporting faculty development, guiding students, or strengthening community partnerships, I lead with purpose, passion, and a steadfast belief in the power of education to change lives.
My Teaching Philosophy
"Learning is not a spectator sport" - Mark Twain
My journey in Fire/EMS began with a passion for learning, which evolved into a commitment to teaching and mentorship. As a paramedic, I took pride in guiding paramedic interns, ensuring they had meaningful learning experiences. I quickly earned a reputation as a preceptor who took time to explain complex concepts and genuinely cared about student success. That same passion for mentorship led me to graduate studies in adult education and a career dedicated to training and developing future professionals.
I believe in fostering strong mentor-mentee relationships by getting to know my students, understanding their goals, and supporting them beyond the classroom. I strive to be a role model—demonstrating professionalism, humility, patience, and inclusivity. Creating a safe and engaging learning environment is my priority, where students are encouraged to participate, make mistakes, and grow. My approach includes hands-on scenarios, case studies, and group discussions that bridge theory with real-world application.
Clear communication, structured expectations, and timely, constructive feedback are central to my teaching. I hold my students to the same standards they will face in licensure and certification, while ensuring they feel supported in their journey. Technology enhances my instruction, and I take time to help students master the tools they will use in their profession.
Education does not end when students leave my classroom. I make myself a resource beyond the course, celebrating their achievements and continuing to provide guidance when needed. My greatest fulfillment comes from seeing my learners succeed—knowing I have played a role in preparing them for the challenges they will face in their careers. Teaching is not just my profession; it is my responsibility, my passion, and my way of giving back to the field and society.
I believe in fostering strong mentor-mentee relationships by getting to know my students, understanding their goals, and supporting them beyond the classroom. I strive to be a role model—demonstrating professionalism, humility, patience, and inclusivity. Creating a safe and engaging learning environment is my priority, where students are encouraged to participate, make mistakes, and grow. My approach includes hands-on scenarios, case studies, and group discussions that bridge theory with real-world application.
Clear communication, structured expectations, and timely, constructive feedback are central to my teaching. I hold my students to the same standards they will face in licensure and certification, while ensuring they feel supported in their journey. Technology enhances my instruction, and I take time to help students master the tools they will use in their profession.
Education does not end when students leave my classroom. I make myself a resource beyond the course, celebrating their achievements and continuing to provide guidance when needed. My greatest fulfillment comes from seeing my learners succeed—knowing I have played a role in preparing them for the challenges they will face in their careers. Teaching is not just my profession; it is my responsibility, my passion, and my way of giving back to the field and society.
