Bio

School librarians frequently cite the development of “lifelong learners” as one of their most important professional goals. In my experience, we practice what we preach! Becoming a student in the E-Learning and Online Teaching Graduate Certificate Program represents one more step along the way in my professional development.

Online and blended learning have fascinated me since my first distance education experience in the early ‘90s. Earning my Masters of Library Science in the Syracuse University Information School’s distance ed program introduced me to a diverse, talented, and curious group. The distance program was in its infancy; the school was operating on the bleeding edge. Without a strong sense of adventure and curiosity, we would have dropped like flies! Collaboration was essential. Experimenting with new technologies was required. 

My BA is in English. My first graduate work was in English literature. Nearly all of my professional life has been spent in schools. As a department chair and director of a K-12 school library program, I look for new opportunities for keeping up in this very broad field. Learning through an online program prepares me to facilitate similar courses for others.

When I’m not wearing my teaching or administration hats, I’m enjoying learning and collaborating in other ways. Learning to play the bodhran (sounds like “bow’ rahn”), the Irish frame drum, has been enormous fun! My quilt guild friends are great teachers and wonderful friends. Both interests led to wonderful travel and friendships as well. My two grown children also share my passion for books, reading, travel and technology.