General Information
Biography
I have had many different roles throughout my 20 years in libraries. No matter the nature of my work, I have been honored to be part of a profession that contributes to the quality of life for so many individual and communities. I am proud to call myself a 21st century librarian and it is my greatest joy to work with students preparing for their own journey in libraries.
Teaching Interests
Leadership and Management, Children's and Young Adult Literature, Online education in higher ed
Research Interests
My teaching and research interests include library leadership, community engagement, advocacy and children’s literature.Teaching Statement:My teaching practice is informed by the reciprocity of knowledge sharing: I learn as much as I teach from the unique gathering of students in each class. Each individual’s perspective and experience is valuable beyond measure and when these perspectives are shared and nurtured, we create a rich canvas for critical thought, learning, and innovation. I view myself as a facilitator, mentor, and coach, helping students identify their strengths and passions, then developing those for application within the discipline. I strive to create an environment in which philosophy, theory, and recommended practices gain relevance when paired with hands-on experiences and meaningful research. Our learning community is a sacred space: diverse, inclusive, and made powerful through the collective exchange of thought.
Education
MA, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, Library and Information Science, 2008