HERstory

"Christy Nosek Carter is an enthusiastic community college instructor that strives to perfect her pedagogical strengths and skills. Most importantly, she feels one of her main roles is to help encourage students to persevere so they can ultimately graduate. She maintains relationships with students and fiercely empowers and motivates her students to succeed. Large community colleges, in particular, can be a lonely place, especially if you are a first-generation college student, come from a non-traditional background, or have a unique learning need.  

'I am enthusiastic about helping student’s practice, both in groups online, in person and with and one-on-one experiences, where they can polish and hone their communication skills prior to entering the workforce. This is achieved through specific communication exercises, case studies, and simulations.  Most importantly, I treasure the opportunity to build relationships with students and help guide them even beyond the course. I can't count the number of recommendation letters I have written but each one brings a smile to my face.'

Earning a B.A., M.Ed., and M.A. degrees were not easy tasks as Christy learned as a young adult due to her learning disability. 'School could be arduous and confusing at times and sadly I never understood why until I saved money from my first job and paid for a learning evaluation.' Further, Christy was a first-generation college student which made navigating college admission, academics, and the campus community more difficult and isolating. One aha moment Christy recalls is the supportive faculty in her own community college experience. The faculty who took the time to let her know she was cared about, was not alone, and that she could absolutely succeed. Thus, began Christy's path in teaching, and her desire and passion to continue mentoring and helping students in the campus environment. She is especially fond of diverse student populations who have non-traditional learning experiences and enjoys working with them, celebrating their success."

Nominated by Erin Carter