BSED Elementary ‘03, PHD URBAN ED STUDIES ‘16
Executive Director of Outreach & Engagement - Indiana University Alumni Association
IU Indianapolis Athletics Hall of Fame
MSED Secondary '04
State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Wisconsin
MSED Elementary '23
WNBA Draft Pick, Phoenix Mercury
BSED Elementary '98
School Superintendent, MSD Pike Township
PHD URBAN ED STUDIES ‘16
Chief Executive Officer, STRYV365
Long before she became a school counselor, Kanene Summers understood the power of helping others succeed.
Growing up in rural Indiana, Kanene attended a two-room schoolhouse from kindergarten through eighth grade. In that close-knit environment, older students often helped younger ones, and she discovered an early passion for supporting others as she tutored younger classmates who were learning to read. Those formative experiences planted the seeds for a career—and a life—dedicated to service.
Those experiences ultimately inspired Kanene to pursue graduate studies in counseling. Drawn to a profession that allowed her to work directly with children and families, she earned her Master of Science in Education in Counseling from Indiana University Indianapolis in 1991.
Kanene spent her counseling career at Lebanon Community Schools and Smoky Row Elementary School in Carmel Clay Schools, where she became a trusted advocate for students navigating academic, social, and personal challenges. Through her work, she helped countless young people develop confidence, resilience, and a belief in their own potential. Her commitment reflected a core belief that every child deserves encouragement, opportunity, and someone who believes in their future.
That same belief has guided her philanthropy.
For Kanene, giving back grew out of hands-on community service through her church and the Shalom House, a community outreach ministry founded when members of Otterbein Methodist Church transformed a neglected house into a welcoming gathering place for neighbors in need. Kanene served as president of the organization's board and continues to volunteer through its annual Garden Tour fundraiser, which generates approximately $30,000 each year to support the organization's mission. .
Through her work with Shalom House, Kanene witnessed the difference that committed volunteers can make when they come together around a shared purpose. What began as a church-led outreach effort evolved into a lasting community resource, providing assistance and connection to individuals and families facing hardship. The experience reinforced a philosophy that continues to guide her philanthropy today: meaningful change happens when people invest their time, talents, and resources in one another.
Kanene's philanthropy is especially focused on ensuring that children have the resources they need to learn and succeed. Kanene is the representative for the Otterbein Lebanon Education Foundation fund that supports grants that allow teachers to bring innovative learning opportunities into their classrooms. The grants encourage educators to secure resources ranging from literacy support and specialized instruction to educational technology and hands-on learning experiences. These efforts reflect her belief that every child deserves access to an excellent education, regardless of circumstance.
Kanene also became involved in supporting Stokes Elementary School, where she witnessed firsthand the challenges facing students and educators in under-resourced communities. Those experiences strengthened her commitment to educational equity and inspired efforts to provide students with the resources, encouragement, and opportunities they deserved. Kanene and her husband provide grants for beginning teachers to enhance their classrooms. She is also a member of Phi Epsilon Omega, a service organization dedicated to advancing women's education.
Family, Community, and Lifelong Connections
While service has been a defining thread throughout Kanene's life, family remains at the heart of who she is. She and her husband continue to live in the original family farmhouse on the Lebanon property where they raised their three children. Today, their family extends across Indiana and beyond, with sons living in Noblesville and Colorado and a daughter who resides in Lebanon. Most importantly, Kanene treasures her role as a grandmother and has been deeply involved in the lives of her grandchildren, sharing experiences that create lasting memories—from attending theater performances and sporting events to simply spending time together.
Those family connections have reinforced Kanene's belief in the importance of investing in future generations. Whether through her professional work, volunteer service, or philanthropy, she has always been motivated by the desire to help young people discover opportunities and reach their full potential.
Kanene's lifelong connection to Indiana University is also woven into her family life. A proud alumna, she and her family enjoy following IU athletics, particularly basketball. In recent years, they have also become enthusiastic supporters of IU Football. Her passion for IU sports reflects a broader sense of connection to the university and the community it creates for alumni across generations.
Today, Kanene's support of the IU School of Education Indianapolis reflects her gratitude for the education that prepared her for a meaningful career and her belief in the transformative power of educators and counselors. Through her philanthropy, she is investing in future generations of education professionals who will continue the work that has defined her life: helping others learn, grow, and thrive.
Her generosity is rooted not in a single moment, but in a lifetime of service. Whether tutoring classmates in a rural schoolhouse, helping families navigate adoption, counseling elementary students, leading community outreach efforts, supporting teachers and students, or investing in future educators, Kanene has consistently sought ways to strengthen the lives of others.
As Indiana University advances the Never Daunted Campaign, alumni like Kanene Summers exemplify the profound impact of an IU education. Through both her professional achievements and her generous spirit, she demonstrates how one person's commitment to service can uplift students, strengthen communities, and inspire others to give back.
Nathaniel Waterfill, BS '15
Interview with Nathaniel Waterfill
Introduction: Hey Jaguars! I am a junior/senior English teacher on the Westside of Indy at Ben Davis University High School. We are a public high school where every student earns their associate's degree for free by the time they graduate high school. Go Giants!
SoE: Who was your most memorable teacher, and what made them memorable?
Nathaniel: Dr. Crystal Morton was the most memorable teacher I had at IUI (then IUPUI). This is because she had a great ability to make education theory into reality, and she had excellent insights into different collaborative teaching strategies. I still think of the passion and wisdom with which she taught us.
SoE: How did your experience at the School of Education shape who you are today?
Nathaniel: The field experience with teachers like Dr. Morton and Dr. Medina definitely made the greatest impact on who I am as a teacher. In these contexts, I learned about asset-based teaching, and a lot of my beliefs about culturally-responsive teaching were reinforced and deepened. I loved how hands-on the blocks were, and I often tell aspiring teachers to attend IUI for that reason.
SoE: What professional accomplishments have you been most proud of and why?
Nathaniel: I am most proud of starting a scholarship for undocumented immigrant students in Wayne Township called Giant Dreams. I was so thankful to our community and the Wayne Township Education Foundation for making my idea a reality that awards one senior every year. I am also proud of winning the Golden Apple from Wish TV, but not because of the award. I am proud of this because it was a student nomination, and I am still floored by the fact that an 8th grader took the time to do that for me. Likewise, I am proud of the Senior Choice and Top 30 awards I have received from students. Teachers get to be at the intersection of sacred moments for young people every day, and I most appreciate the accomplishments that commemorate that.
SoE: What can you share with educators, counselors or fellow alumni?
Nathaniel: Teaching is still the greatest job in the world. Despite the politics, defunding, systemic issues, constant changes, you name it, I still love what I do. This job can be heartbreaking and difficult, but I have never once felt like I was wasting my life in this career and calling. Hopefully, my students don't either! They are worth the struggles, and, let me not be so melodramatic, it's a fun and collaborative career where I get to be inspired by excellent young people and colleagues.
Soon after graduating from IUI, I was diagnosed with cancer, and my wife was pregnant with our first child. I had a surreal experience of receiving chemo treatments at the IU Simon Cancer Center right across the street from the Campus Center, mere months after graduating. Unless you're in the health fields, most students probably don't think about what life is like for many people across Michigan Street. This experience deeply impacted how I saw my college time, my life, and teaching. I am happy to say that IUI equipped me with the skills to have a great career after that difficult season. I am even happier to say that I will be ten years cancer-free this March. God is good!
Learn more about Nathaniel Waterfill
K’Driahn Black, BS '15
Interview with K'Driahn Black
Introduction: Hello fellow alumni! My name is K'Driahn Black. I am currently a third-grade teacher in the Indianapolis Public School district with a deep passion for literacy and student emotional wellbeing. In addition to my work in the classroom, I am a mother of 4 children who attend schools in IPS as well.
SoE: Who was your most memorable teacher, and what made them memorable?
K'Driahn: Mr. Kriech was my most memorable teacher because he made school a fun place to be and truly developed relationships with his students.
SoE: How did your experience at the School of Education shape who you are today?
K'Driahn: My time at IU Indianapolis gave me the foundation to look at the 'whole child.' It helped me understand that effective teaching isn't just about curriculum—it's about the intersection of rigorous instruction and relationship building. My education there sparked the curiosity that drives me today; It taught me that to teach a child, you must first seek to understand them.
SoE: What professional accomplishments have you been most proud of and why?
K'Driahn: I am incredibly proud of recently being surprised with the Golden Apple Award. It was a validating moment that reminded me that the love and effort I pour into my students is seen and felt. Beyond awards, I am proud of my continuous growth as an educator.
SoE: What can you share with educators, counselors or fellow alumni?
K'Driahn: I can share the importance of integrating psychology and relationship dynamics into the classroom. As an educator, I’ve found that supporting a student’s emotions is just as critical as teaching them math or reading. I am passionate about understanding trauma-informed practices to ensure our students feel safe enough to learn as the need is very present in our classrooms.
Shout out to the wonderful staff and students of Charles Warren Fairbanks!
Learn more about K'Driahn Black
Brent Cummings, BS' 15, MS '14, PLTW (STEM) Perry Township
Interview with Brent Cummings
Introduction: Hello everyone! Fellow Hoosier here! My name is Brent Cummings and I teach PLTW (STEM) in Perry Township at Jeremiah Gray Elementary. I grew up a Hoosier fan and what a proud time to be alumni and represent the cream and crimson! I'm a proud husband to my wife, Natasha Cummings, who also teaches PLTW in Perry Township and we have four beautiful children and two dogs.
SoE: Who was your most memorable teacher, and what made them memorable?
Brent: I would like to give a big shout out to my professor Dr. Maxcy, who saw something in me and pushed me through a time when I was going through some adversity in my life. I remember him for his encouragement, his positive attitude, and sense of humor. He always made himself available for support and he made an impact on me as an educator.
SoE: How did your experience at the School of Education shape who you are today?
Brent: I attribute my successes in my career to my Faith, my Family, and the support I received at the IU School of Education. The IU School of Education created an avenue for me to explore and gain experiences as a teacher in Kindergarten, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade as well as experience as an Assistant Principal, but when I landed an opportunity as a PLTW Teacher, I found my,
"Why," and it has afforded me the opportunity to reach students in grades 1st through 5th Grade. The IU School of Education shaped me to be someone who is always driven to learn, always willing to grow, and the belief that every day is an opportunity to make a difference in
someone's life.
SoE: What professional accomplishments have you been most proud of and why?
Brent: Receiving the Golden Apple Award from WISHTV was the accomplishment that I am the most proud of, because there has been a lot of people who have invested a lot of their time and energy into me and gaining this award wasn't just recognition of myself, but everyone who has impacted me during my journey in education. It was truly a humbling experience and I am so thankful to Hanna Mordoh from WISHTV for everything she does to bring light to educators everywhere. My friends and family were and are incredibly proud and I'm forever thankful for this humbling accomplishment!
SoE: What can you share with educators, counselors or fellow alumni?
Brent: Being a School of Education Alumni means gaining friends and a support system for life. It takes everyone of us being there for each other, and always remember your, "Why." You're surrounded by others who chose a field to impact others. What a special group to be a part of!
Learn more about Brent Cummings
April Tramil, BS '08, Principal, Stephen Decatur Elementary School
Interview with April Tramil
Introduction: I earned my bachelor's degree from the School of Education in 2008. I had the privilege of learning from several distinguished faculty and staff, including Dr. Paula Magee, Dr. Crystal Morton, Dr. Claudette Lands, Erin Cassity and others. I am deeply appreciative of the strong foundation the IU School of Education in Indianapolis provided me and honored to be an active member on the School of Education's Alumni Advisory Council. I look forward to continuing to grow, learn, and engage with fellow alumni who share a commitment to education and leadership. Go IU!
I am proud to serve as principal of Stephen Decatur Elementary School in MSD Decatur Township. It is an honor to lead such an amazing school community, where we prioritize building strong relationships, fostering a lifelong love of learning, and empowering every student to reach their full potential.
SoE: Who was your most memorable teacher, and what made them memorable?
April: During my years in the School of Ed, I was fortunate to have several memorable and influential teachers. Dr. Signe Kastberg, Dr. Paula Magee, Dr. Erik Tillema, Dr. Lonnie Gill, Dr. Susan Adamson, Dr. Crystal Morton, Dr. Claudette Lands, and Erin Cassity.
SoE: How did your experience at the School of Education shape who you are today?
April: My experience at the School of Education shaped who I am today by providing a strong foundation in
pedagogy and culturally responsive practices. I learned the importance of building deep conceptual understanding during student-teaching. I gained an understanding of not just teaching content, but helping students think critically and make meaning for themselves. The School of Ed instilled in me the belief that relationships and connections are at the heart of great teaching, and those same relationships continue to sustain and inspire me in my work as a school leader. The experiences and mentorship I gained at IU didn’t just prepare me for a career in education, they gave me the values and vision that guide me each day in shaping young minds and supporting teachers.
SoE: What professional accomplishments have you been most proud of and why?
April: While I am grateful for the professional awards and recognitions I have received, what I am most proud of is simply being able to remain in the field of education, living out my dream and continuously expanding my impact. For me, true accomplishment is measured in the lives I’ve touched and the relationships I’ve built with students, families, and colleagues. Many of the families I’ve worked with over the years have become like family to me and knowing that I’ve played a role in their educational journey is the greatest honor of my career.
SoE: What can you share with educators, counselors or fellow alumni?
April: One thing I’ve learned and would encourage fellow educators, counselors, and alumni to carry with them is the power of hope, reflection, and a strong network. Hope reminds us why we do this work and keeps us focused on the possibilities for every student. Reflection allows us to grow, learn from our experiences, and continue evolving as professionals and as people. And a strong network, whether it’s colleagues, mentors, or fellow alumni gives us the support, encouragement, and shared wisdom we need to sustain ourselves in this important work. Education is a field that requires both the heart and the head; you must take care of both in order to thrive and to serve yourself and others well.
Learn more about April Tramil
Kimberly Brooks, BS ‘96 and MS ‘03
Interview with Kimberly Brooks
Introduction: To my Fellow Hoosiers--Greetings from Fort Wayne, Indiana! I am an alumna of both the School of Education in Bloomington and Fort Wayne. I began my career as a substitute teacher before finding my passion teaching fourth grade for 12 years. While earning my master’s degree in school administration, I realized my calling was to influence education beyond the classroom.
Today, as Director of Federal Programs, I oversee multiple Title grants, High Ability programs, and pandemic relief funding for more than 90 schools serving over 30,000 students. I credit my dedicated team and shared mission for ensuring resources reach students who need them most, “They deserve it”
SoE: Who was your most memorable teacher, and what made them memorable?
Kimberly: My high school Latin teacher, Mrs. Mack, stands out as the most memorable. My teacher’s
contagious enthusiasm for Roman and Greek culture inspired me to remain enrolled in Latin for four years. Mrs. Mack’s ability to make students feel welcomed, cared for, and valued shaped how I approached my own teaching career.
SoE: How did your experience at the School of Education shape who you are today?
Kimberly: My undergraduate years taught me the foundation of being a teacher--how to teach reading and math, create lesson plans, and most importantly, that it’s always about the kids. In my current
administrative role, I rarely see students. However, when challenges arise, I draw on those experiences to re-center my efforts on improving opportunities for children.
SoE: What professional accomplishments have you been most proud of and why?
Kimberly: I am grateful to have served on the Governor’s Early Learning Advisory Committee for the past three
years, leading the growth of our district’s preschool program from serving under 500 to more than 800 students each year in a nationally accredited and state-licensed program and mentoring new and future grants managers all while ensuring resources reach over 30,000 students through federal programs.
SoE: What can you share with educators, counselors or fellow alumni?
Kimberly: We are who our students need us to be. After nearly 30 years in education, I believe this more than ever—especially post-pandemic. For many children, school is their safe haven and source of security. Our greatest responsibility is to create and nurture that environment so they can grow, thrive, and succeed.
Nichole Flowers, BS '13, 3rd Grade Teacher
Nichole Flowers is a dedicated third grade teacher in Anderson Community Schools. Her journey in the School of Education prepared her to work effectively with diverse student populations. Her personal grit has enabled her to shape young minds for the past 14 years and use her platform to help students obtain necessary school supplies.
Nichole shares her love of learning throughout her classroom, and she empowers her students to try hard things and do their best every day. In fact, third graders at Anderson Community School earned an 82% proficiency rate for IREAD!
A love of reading is evident in Flowers’ classroom as well as in her personal life - Nichole Flowers is an author! Nichole recently wrote an inspirational book titled "I Am: Positive Declaration for the Soul". The book encourages readers to change their lives through positive declarations, devotion, and faith-centered personal growth.
Nichole's work inside and outside of the classroom shows a deep commitment to inspiring and empowering both young students and adult learners to embrace positivity and personal growth.
Kara Fernung, B.S. '23, Early Childhood Education
Teacher, Wayne Township Schools
Introduction: Hi there! My name is Kara Fernung and I am an alumni of the SoE. I am currently a second grade teacher in Wayne Township. This is my first year as a full time classroom teacher. But not my first time working with students/kids. I'm excited for you to see/learn more about me and my experience at the School Of Education.
SoE:Who was your most memorable teacher, and what made them memorable?
Kara: My most memorable teacher during my years are the school of education would be my STEM and Science In Early Grades professor. He never made you feel incapable of reaching a goal you had for yourself. He was always accommodating for things that may of happened outside of school. His class was always early but I never dreaded getting up for his class because I always knew it would be enjoyable.
SoE:How did your experience at the IU School of Education Indianapolis shape who you are today?
Kara: They helped me understand different concepts within the teaching field. They also gave me a group of girls who I was able to get to know and go through this program with. Some I am still in contact with. And it feels good to know that this experience was shared with some amazing people.
SoE:What professional accomplishments have you been most proud of and why?
Kara: Being offered a teaching job at the school I wanted to begin my teaching journey before student teaching was over. It showed me how capable I was of getting to where I wanted to be no matter what people threw at me or said.
SoE:What can you share with educators, counselors or fellow alumni?
Kara: For my fellow alumni who are going into the teaching realm and are nervous about taking over their first classroom, it is scary and nerve wrecking. Don't let the nerves consume you - You'll figure it out, we all do. If you are doing early grades (1st - 4th), these kids are so forgiving, just own your mistakes and be able to laugh at yourself. Be the teacher for them that you needed when you were their age.
The Indiana University School of Education has honored Dr. Patricia Payne, Director of the Office of Racial Equity and Inclusion for Indianapolis Public Schools, with the prestigious Transformational Alumni Award for her career in education. This career award highlights highlights Dr. Payne’s lasting commitment to educational equity and social justice, recognizing her as a national leader and advocate who represents the values of excellence.
The Indiana University School of Education has honored Lillian Barkes, CEO of Listen to our Future, with the prestigious Transformational Alumni Award for her service in education. This service award highlights Lillian's work as an educator and her leadership as the co-founder and CEO of Listen to Our Future - an afterschool program that meets students where they are to empower them academically and socially.
Tia Taylor, Master of Science in Education, 2020
Principal, The PATH School
Introduction: My name is Tia Taylor, I am the Principal of The PATH School. PATH (Purpose, Achievement, Talent, Heart) is a K-8 school on the west side of Indianapolis.
I had the great opportunity to work on the school team, while attending classes at night to earn my second master's degree from the School of Education. Simultaneously working and learning at the School of Education was the best learning I’ve ever experienced. I have now served at the PATH School for 6 years.
SoE:Who was your most memorable teacher, and what made them memorable?
Tia: Dr. Hardy was one of my favorite instructors. His unwavering dedication and profound wisdom profoundly impacted me. Dr. Hardy's real-world expertise and steadfast commitment to our educational journey greatly influenced my personal and intellectual growth.
SoE:How did your experience at the IU School of Education Indianapolis shape who you are today?
Tia: Reflecting on my time there, I realize it has deeply influenced my journey as an educator and my role as a principal. The rigorous curriculum, supportive faculty, and hands-on experiences provided me with invaluable insights and skills that continue to guide me in my career today.
SoE:What professional accomplishments have you been most proud of and why?
Tia: I am most proud of the collaborative effort involved in creating a school from scratch, including contributing to the writing of the charter. Moreover, leading this institution as the building leader has been incredibly rewarding and fulfilling. These achievements represent not only personal milestones but also the culmination of dedicated teamwork and commitment to educational excellence.
SoE:What can you share with educators, counselors or fellow alumni?
Tia: Every effort you put in, every challenge you overcome, and every student you inspire makes a profound difference in shaping the future. Stay resilient, stay dedicated, and keep striving for excellence. You have the power to make a lasting impact.
Dr. Shannon McCullough, PhD ’16, MSED ’08
Assistant Dean of Admissions and Student Affairs
Associate Faculty, Art Therapy
The success of students is at the heart of the School of Education! We have dedicated alumni, staff and faculty who give their time, talent and treasure to empower students.
Dr. Shannon McCullough is one of those dedicated people. The way she supports students at IU Indianapolis by her generous donations is unmatched!
Dr. Shannon McCullough is an alumna of the School of Education. Dr. McCullough successfully completed her Ph.D. with fellow scholars. The group of 8 Black women became known as the Great 8. McCullough is a founder and donor of the Great 8 Scholarship.
Dr. Shannon McCullough currently serves as an Associate faculty member, and Assistant Dean of Admissions & Student Affairs in the Herron School of Art + Design.
Alumna Tiffany Kyser shares memories of her early education teacher, how the School of Education impacted her, and encouragement for fellow alumni.
SoE: Who was your most memorable instructor, and what made them memorable?
Tiffany: Ms. Gilman. My 5th and 6th grade teacher who did the following to honor me, my lived experience, and my assets:
1. Considered what was relevant and effective for me and my classmates by sharing responsibility for how the physical environment looked, what would be taught, and how learning will occur and be accessed.
2. Positioned herself as a facilitator of learning rather than the only or primary source of knowledge in the classroom.
3. I and others were centered to explore the social problems that were relevant to our lives and engage in opportunities to take civic action.
4. Surfaced the non perceivable contributions of members of marginalized groups through literature, current events, classroom visitors, and overall curricular and instructional decisions.
5. Facilitated joy, storytelling, celebration, and mistakes or transgressions as developmentally appropriate and opportunity to learn (not to pathologize).
SoE: How did your experience at the IU School of Education Indianapolis shape who you are today?
Tiffany: Continued to cultivate a sense of community, encourage civic engagement, affirmed postures of education, gender, ability, racial, economic, environmental, and social justice.
SoE: What professional accomplishments have you been most proud of and why?
Tiffany: Receiving a Distinguished Level rating on my classroom observation evaluation my first-year teaching middle school language arts.
SoE: What can you share with educators, counselors or fellow alumni?
Tiffany: The Midwest and Plains Equity Assistance Center (MAP) is one of four regional Equity Assistance Centers, funded by the United States Department of Education under Title IV of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. The MAP Center provides technical assistance and training, upon request, in the areas of race, sex, national origin, and religion to public school districts and other responsible governmental agencies to promote equitable educational opportunities and work in the areas of civil rights, equity, and school reform. The Center serves 13 State Educational Agencies, 7,025 Public School Districts, and 11,249,050 Public School Students.
If you are interested in learning more or submitting a request for assistance to leverage free, high quality technical assistance, view our website here: Great Lakes Equity Center Website
SoE: Is there anything else you would like to share with educators?
Tiffany: We, as educators, find ourselves and our school communities in a moment of collective and compounding pain due to the COVID-19 global pandemic, economic recession, race-based violence against BIPOC and religious minoritized communities, and extreme weather catastrophes (Silver et al., 2021). For those closest to issue of oppression, this further exacerbates one's labor to push back. However, I want to center our collective joy in community with one another as sustenance, as fortification. Let's take care of ourselves and take care of our communities. Some resources that may be of interest:
1. Resources for Addressing Violence Against BIPOC, Children, & Other Targeted Communities
2. The 20-Minute Talk: Anti-Racism Vodcast Series
3. That's All Folx Podcast
Alumna Jill Underly shares memories of being a high school social studies teacher, the flexibility in course offerings at SoE, and offers advice on how to work in public education and public service.
Introduction: Hello, fellow alumni. I left Indiana in 2005 to pursue my doctorate at the University of Wisconsin - Madison, and have made Wisconsin my home since. Recently, I was elected to represent Wisconsin as the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, a non-partisan constitutional officer with a 4 year term. I will be eligible for reelection in 2025. It is an honor and privilege to serve in this role and be the lead advocate for public education and public school children and educators in this state.
SoE:Who was your most memorable instructor, and what made them memorable?
Jill: Bob Osgood was my favorite teacher and I happily reconnected with him (unexpectedly) when I began my work at the WI Department of Public Instruction and he was in charge of teacher preparation at St. Norbert's College in Green Bay. He was always so easy to talk to and understood the struggles that someone who had to juggle a lot of life issues could have while completing a graduate degree. He was a wonderful support.
SoE: How did your experience at the IU School of Education Indianapolis shape who you are today?
Jill: I was working full time as a high school social studies teacher when I decided to pursue my master's degree at IU Indianapolis. The flexibility in course offerings as well as the ability to take courses at night, or in the summer during the day, kept me motivated to complete my degree. Many of the individuals and professors, with their own life experience, helped me see public education as one of the main drivers to economic and personal success, and that philosophy is what helps me look at issues that people bring to my attention as completely solvable. Government is supposed to make our lives better, and that's the underpinning of why I know public education is critical for the success of our democracy.
SoE: What professional accomplishments have you been most proud of and why?
Jill: In 2012 I received my doctorate and that opened so many doors for me not just in public education but in public service. The accomplishment that I am most proud of is my statewide election in 2021 to become Wisconsin's state superintendent of public instruction.
SoE: What can you share with educators, counselors or fellow alumni?
Jill: Always believe in yourself and don't forget to take care of yourself. I know it sounds cliché but it is the truth. Working in public service, or working in public education and being a parent or a spouse, takes a lot of energy and it can be emotionally very taxing. Don't forget to care for yourself - find time to reduce stress, make getting a good night's sleep a priority, exercise, eat well, it make all the difference. If you can't take care of yourself first, you are not at your best self to care for others.
Alumna Raven Henry shares her strength, drive, and determination from driving the school bus, to teaching in the same elementary school she attended as a child.
Introduction: Alumni and class of 2023, WE DID IT! We persevered through one of the hardest times in this country let alone our own lives and we never gave up! That speaks volume about us. I wish you all the best in any of your endeavors and go be great in all you do! I was a school bus driver for 11 years when I enrolled in the Teacher Education Program. I worked full-time and was a full-time student. I am now teaching in my childhood elementary school as a 4th grade teacher!
SoE:Who was your most memorable instructor, and what made them memorable?
Raven: Ronald Cunningham & Cassandra Williams [in the School of Education Teacher Education Program] they equally pushed me to be the best student and in turn Educator I can be. They equally believed in my abilities and have me best tools to walk away with. Thank you both sincerely.
SoE:How did your experience at the IU School of Education Indianapolis shape who you are today?
Raven: SoE taught me a strength that I did not know I was holding inside. I was a full time student and employee and I learned how to fight for myself and needs, which I will be teach my students to do as well. That is my greatest take away from the SoE.
SoE:What professional accomplishments have you been most proud of and why?
Raven: I was a school bus driver for 11 years. I became a full-time student while being a full time employee. It taught me perseverance and determination. I earned my degree while doing both. I learned, whatever we put our minds to we can see it through.
SoE:What can you share with educators, counselors or fellow alumni?
Raven: It is never too late to follow your dreams!!! Keep Going and be great, compassionate, kind, genuine, and intentional in all you do. I wish you all the best in any of your endeavors and go be great in all you do!
