Biography
I have a BS in Healthcare Administration, with a Minor in Gerontology and Recreational
Management, as well as a Master鈥檚 in Business Administration.<br>In past years, I
have trained and worked in varied industries, one being in the nuclear arena for the
Department of Energy/Department of Defense, and secondly in another highly regulated
industry, "healthcare"! Most of my career has been in healthcare and has included
the management of retail vision stores and labs (including a multi-million dollar
optometry practice), serving as an executive director and administrator in long-term
care for continuing care retirement, independent living, and assisted living communities,
and instructing college level courses in healthcare administration.<br>At one point
in my career I helped a friend build an elder law practice as a director of client
services, and was a system-wide patient access manager/director for a large non-profit
healthcare system. I have also worked as a full time instructor and program director
in a health management and policy program for almost a decade, and been a part-time
adjunct and online instructor in varied health management programs for over 25 years.<br>I
am currently enjoying the challenges and opportunities as an instructor in the integrated
health sciences (IHS) and masters in health science (MHS) programs for Western Carolina
University.<br>My hobbies include singing, song writing, & playing the guitar. I also
enjoy camping, hiking, **canyoneering, movie going, and just about anything with my
family. I even find time to do some carpentry every now and then.<br>Although my career
has been diverse and sometimes challenging, I have always enjoyed the relationships
I have developed with students, co-workers, patients and clients, and I look forward
to teaching and working with my colleagues at WCU.<br>It is exciting to learn and
grow together in an atmosphere that is fueled by cooperation and mutual participation.
Teaching Interests
Brief statement of teaching philosophy:<br>I believe education should ignite curiosity
and empower students to connect learning with life. When students are actively<br>engaged鈥攖hrough
discussions, projects, and hands-on experiences鈥� it helps students think deeply and
engage<br>meaningfully. Authentic assessments, such as case studies and community
focused projects, allow students to apply<br>knowledge to real-world challenges, proving
that learning is more than memorization鈥攊t鈥檚 preparation for impact. By<br>blending
active learning with authentic tasks, we create opportunities for growth that inspire
confidence, foster resilience,<br>and prepare students to thrive in their careers
and lead more meaningful purposeful lives.
