How many years have you been a JA volunteer?
I have been a JA Volunteer since 2016. I started with one program, and I now serve on the JA Volunteer Committee as well as serving as the EFSC Coordinator for our college-wide "EFSC JA in a Day" Annual Event, now in its second year!
What is your favorite grade/JA program?
I really enjoy the 4th grade program: the definitions and activities are engaging, challenging and fun. The students are at an age where they are exploring the world around them while also keeping that sense of "play", all while navigating the challenges of interpersonal relationships with their peers during group activities. I find that JA programs include all of those effective educational aspects: individual learning, interactive lessons and collaboration.
Why did you choose JA?
I chose JA, at first, because of a call to action from my employer for help with the JA one day event. It fit my schedule, and being a professional educator, it also fit my skill set. I was interested in experiencing the classroom differences between college students - my regular audience - and elementary aged students. After delivering my first program, I was hooked. The quality of the materials and activities, the development of the content, and the instructions for delivery are all phenomenal. I was energized by the enthusiasm from the students and the support from the teachers and the JA staff, and I was excited to get more of my colleagues and students involved.
Where do you work?
I am an Associate Professor of Speech/Communication at the Palm Bay Campus of Eastern Florida State College. Go Titans! [Editor's Note: Susan was just awarded the Distinguished Educator Recognition Award for 2017 from EFSC!]
Do you volunteer for any other organizations?
Currently, most of my volunteer time is with Student Groups and Faculty Committees at EFSC. My previous volunteer experience includes the Ruth Funk Center for Textile Arts on the FIT Campus, EGAD Main Street and Melbourne Main Street organizations.
Do you have any hobbies?
Yes! My hobbies include knitting, running, reading, cooking, going to Disney with my husband Aaron, learning how to play the guitar, and hanging out with our two pet Blue Tongue Skinks, Scout and Lucky.
What area of Brevard are you from?
Although originally from Central Brevard/Rockledge, my husband and I have made South Brevard our home. #palmbayproud
Anything else we should know about you?
I am honored to be a part of the JA Volunteer Committee, and I am excited about our upcoming EFSC JA-in-a-Day where students, faculty and staff will deliver materials to two schools in Brevard on the same day. We are hoping to break our volunteer numbers from 2017, providing an amazing experience for our Titan Family and the community as a whole. "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has". --Margaret Mead