• Director of Elementary Education Program
  • Director of Reading Program
Liffrig Family School of Education and Behavioral Sciences

About Me

I grew up on a ranch outside of Raleigh, ND. My mother was a teacher and she inspired me to become one too. My career as an educator started in Rock Springs, WY, where I taught kindergarten through fourth-grade Title One Reading and Math, and eventually moved into the second-grade classroom. Coming home to North Dakota brought me to Bismarck, where I taught third-grade. I have been at the University of Mary since 2015.

Why I’m At Mary

The University of Mary feels like home to me. I love working at a university of this size, as it allows me to get to know the students in a meaningful way. Helping students find their path in teaching is extremely rewarding!

Expertise

My expertise is in the learning process for students in first- through eighth-grades. Science education with elementary students is my passion and I like to engage my students in lessons that require inquiry and problem solving.

In 2014, I received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

The Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) are the highest honors bestowed by the United States government specifically for K-12 science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or computer science teaching. Congress established the Awards in 1983. The President may recognize up to 108 exemplary teachers each year.

Education

EdD (Educational Leadership): University of New England, 2019
MEd (Special Education): Bemidji State University, 2009
BS (Elementary Education): University of Mary, 2006

Feel free to check out our graduates' Education Portfolios.