On the first day of each class, I put this word on the board: collaboration. Education is a two-way street; not only do I teach, but the students also teach one another in peer groups. I teach with respect for individual differences and diversity. For the past 6 years, I have taught adults of all ages and backgrounds in a technical college.

In Tacoma, Washington, I attended a parochial school for 9 years and was graduated as valedictorian of my class. I attended Lincoln High School where I took college prep classes, sang in the choir, lettered in three sports, attended Girls’ State, and held school offices. Inasmuch as I had always wanted to attend a large university, I elected to attend the University of Washington where I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in English, Master’s Degree in Teaching and Master’s Degree in ESL.

As a high school teacher, I taught writing, reading, AP English, American Literature, speech, and Senior Health. In a local community college I taught composition and developmental English classes. In business I taught medical and dental professionals, business sales leaders, and international business builders. In the Philippines Refugee Processing Center, I supervised host country national teachers as they worked with Indochinese refugees.

At the University of Washington I joined the rifle team. I also played the organ for our student church and am writing two books.