Instructor of the Year Finalists 2019–2020

Two outstanding instructors to be selected, one full-time and one part-time/adjunct

The Instructor of the Year Committee at Dakota County Technical College is pleased to announce the finalists for the college’s 2019–2020 academic year. The committee consisted of volunteers who shared the same goal: a positive, fair and impartial process for selecting two outstanding instructors, one full-time and one part-time/adjunct.

Three students, two faculty, and one staff member established a rubric that is modeled on the criteria the Minnesota State Board of Trustees utilize for their selection of the Outstanding Faculty of the Year award.

In addition, criteria, e.g., tenure, professional development, service to higher education, etc., were weighted based on what the committee agreed upon early in the process to prioritize. All students, staff and faculty members were allowed one vote using their Star ID to make sure only one vote was cast per person. In total, 210 votes were cast.

Congratulations to all the nominated faculty members! The DCTC 2019–2020 Instructors of the Year will be announced after spring break.

Full-Time Instructor of the Year Finalists

Carrie Erickson

Dental Assistant Faculty

What makes this instructor great?

Nominator:

Carrie Erickson

Carrie is the kindest, sweetest, most genuine teacher I have ever had. She walks into the classroom with a huge smile on her face every day. She genuinely cares about each and every one of her student’s success in their career, and she gives us the knowledge and resources to do it.

In the classroom, she is incredibly knowledgeable, and she makes it an absolute joy to come to class. I’ve never loved going to class in my entire life and because of this I have yet to miss one of her lectures or lab sessions.

Carrie is such a light in our classroom, and I don’t think there has been a day in class or lab that she hasn’t made me smile or burst out laughing. I feel incredibly lucky and thankful to have her as my instructor. She inspires me everyday to be a great student, dental assistant, and to be my best self.

Anne Painter

Architectural Technology, Interior Design and Construction Management Faculty

What makes this instructor great?

Nominator:

Anne Painter

Anne Painter has my nomination for instructor of the year because she strives to educate her students for employment. DCTC’s motto of “Real Education. Real Results.” is what Anne stands by, and I think that is reflected in the way she teaches.

She is always prepared and sets clear and fair expectations. She has a positive attitude, and above all else, she provides lessons that prepare her students for the workforce. This can be further explained by saying that she takes her standard criteria for the program and applies it to associated industries in which her students will work. Whether that be a discussion on what to expect, or actual examples of job related projects, Anne Painter excels her students towards success.

Judy Suddendorf

Information Systems Technology Faculty

What makes this instructor great?

Nominator:

Judy Suddendorf

While most teachers may lead you through a course while holding your hand, Judy truly pushes you as a student to really learn what is being taught, internalize it, and apply it to the best of your abilities.

While she does care whether or not you know your material, if you do not show interest and dedication to the class, you may find yourself in rough patch as you need to give it your undivided attention.

That can prepare you for the real world because in the big, scary world, people expect results and hard work.

Part-Time Instructor of the Year Finalists

Lisa Cline

Photography Faculty

What makes this instructor great?

Nominator:

Lisa Cline

Lisa is very inclusive in the way she addresses the class and provides resources for everyone. She teaches very hands on and makes sure concepts are clear before moving forward.

She does mini-checks to make sure students are on track before going off to complete the remainder of the assignment. No matter what her long day has been like, Lisa is always up-beat and energetic. She has a wealth of industry experience that she draws from and brings into the classroom.

Amy Evanson

Administrative Technology Faculty

What makes this instructor great?

Nominator:

Amy Evanson

I think Amy is a great instructor because she is very understanding. She works with you until you know and understand exactly what you’re doing. She is patient!

She is very thorough with her explanations for online assignments that can get confusing when you don’t have a person there physically to show and explain each detail. I also really like how, if I have an issue, she is very quick to respond and help resolve them, whether it be with assignments or our personal computers.

Amy’s willing to do whatever it takes to help her students achieve success!

Andi Fink

Graphic Design Technology Faculty

What makes this instructor great?

Nominator:

Andi Fink

Andi is fantastic. She has clear expectations with her students balanced with flexibility and understanding. Her knowledge is evident, and she teaches in a ‘smart’ way.

She uses critiques which I think are invaluable. She has been extremely helpful of understanding my own unique situation and has never failed to give me her time when I ask for it.

I will look specifically for classes Andi teaches in the future as I know I’m getting top-grade instruction. DCTC is lucky to have her.

Meri Kennedy

Health Faculty

What makes this instructor great?

Nominator:

Meri Kennedy

Meri is very engaging and makes class fun! She always come to class with a smile.

She encourages students to ask questions and answers all their questions with a smile on her face. She never makes students think they are dumb.

Learn more about attending Dakota County Technical College by contacting:

Admissions
651-423-8000
Enrollment Services
Room 2-110