As a Communication Studies faculty member at Spokane Community College, I focus on helping students build communication skills that support their success in school, work, and everyday life. I teach across the Communication Studies curriculum, using a teaching approach that emphasizes the practical application of new communication skills. I strive to create inclusive, supportive learning environments where students feel engaged and empowered to apply what they learn in meaningful ways. Ultimately, I want students to leave my classroom with tools they can use to strengthen relationships, navigate challenges, and contribute positively to their communities.

With over 20 years of experience in sales and marketing, I bring practical insights from the business world into the classroom. As an Instructor at Spokane Community College, I specialize in interpersonal communication, nonverbal communication, organizational communication, and public speaking. My focus is on connecting with students, regardless of goals, and facilitating a bridge between academic knowledge and real-world applications. As a student leaves my classroom, I want them to know more than when they arrived but more importantly, I want them to be able to use what they have learned to make a better life for themselves and their community. 

Background: B.A. Criminal Justice Administration, Boise State University; M.S. Corporate Communications and Public Relations, Eastern Washington University; Certificate in Principles of Marketing Research, University of Georgia 

I am an adjunct instructor in the Communication Studies Department at Spokane Community College teaching primarily Introduction to Communication, Interpersonal Communication, and Public Relations and Social Media. I also have experience teaching courses in Speech Communication and Interviewing as well as teaching and tutoring Language Arts in Adult Basic Education. I have been teaching at SCC since 2018, but have actually served community colleges for much longer. My community college degree not only started me on my educational path, but I spent 17 years working in strategic communications/public relations/marketing. I have spent my entire career in the field of communication – as a student, instructor, and professional – so I understand the powerful impact of effective communication skills in our lives, both personally and professionally. There is no greater honor than to play a role in teaching and supporting students as they change their lives through education.

Background: A.A. and A.S. in Journalism from North Idaho College; B.S. in Journalism/Public Relations from Eastern Washington University; M.S. in Adult/Organizational Learning and Leadership from University of Idaho; GCert. in Communication Education Minnesota State University, Mankato; M.S. in Communication Studies from Minnesota State University, Mankato; Cert. in Women in Leadership from Cornell University; GCert. in Human Resource Development from the University of Idaho.

I have been an instructor at Spokane Community College since 2011, and I thoroughly enjoy every minute of it. My goal is to support students from all backgrounds by using effective teaching practices and participating in campus activities that promote equity, diversity, and inclusion. I am passionate about student-centered learning and student success. Some of my favorite courses to teach include intercultural communication, public speaking, interpersonal communication, introduction to communication, and leadership development.

Background: A.A. from Spokane Falls Community College; B.A. in Criminal Justice from Eastern Washington University; M.S. in Communication Studies from Eastern Washington University.

For more than 30 years, I have had the privilege of teaching and learning alongside students who continually inspire me. I’m moved by their commitment and bravery to look within themselves, make a plan for improvement, and develop their skills.

The classes I’m most drawn to teach blend theory, critical thinking, and skill development, helping students apply communication concepts in meaningful ways. I especially enjoy teaching Intercultural Communication and Gender Communication, as these courses allow students to observe, examine, and evaluate the larger cultural messages that shape their experiences and relationships.

As Department Chair of Communication Studies at Spokane Community College (SCC), I work with our faculty to ensure our courses remain rigorous, transferable, and relevant. I take great pride in helping our curriculum stay current and aligned with both student goals and university partners.

I have taught at Sacramento State University, Whitworth College, UC Santa Barbara, Yuba College, Cosumnes River College, San Joaquin Delta College, and Gonzaga University. I started at SCC in 1996 and in addition to teaching courses in communication studies, I am the advisor for the "Sasquatch Times," SCC's student-run campus newspaper. I worked for the CA State Assembly for 13 years as well as Public Anthropological Services, a cultural resources management group. I also worked for several years in broadcasting, most recently at KHYL FM 101, Sacramento, CA. Faculty advisor for Phi Theta Kappa, the community college honors club. 

Background: BA in communication studies, rhetoric, and journalism from California State University, Sacramento. MA in communication studies, CSUS with additional graduate studies at University of California at Santa Barbara

I began my teaching vocation in 1983 in elementary education and have continued teaching since 1988 at SCC. I am a dedicated teacher of Interpersonal Communication and Intercultural Communication and have co-authored an intercultural experiential book which is used in the classroom as well as consulting in the business community. I am the faculty advisor for the human rights club (SAL) at SCC. 

Background: MA in speech communication, with additional work in the doctoral program at the University of Oregon