I’ve been bringing a depth of experience, practical application, and genuine passion to VCC since 2021.
I love teaching MSKL 1104 Interpersonal/Commun - Health because I believe relationships are the foundation of life.
Our ability to achieve our goals, share our ideas and perspectives, express our emotions, and experience fulfillment is deeply connected to the quality of our relationships. When we learn how to communicate constructively, adapt to different personalities and situations, and express ourselves honestly and respectfully, we build confidence and open doors that may otherwise remain closed. These skills create empowerment.
I began my career in the banking industry and often felt like a square peg in a round hole. After ten years, I was offered a position in the training and development department. From the moment I stepped into that role, I felt like I had arrived home. That transition marked the beginning of my journey into teaching and facilitation. Now it’s been over 35 years, that I have coached, advised, consulted, and facilitated workshops focused on interpersonal communication and relationship building.
What I see in my classroom is that my students often expect to gain technical communication skills, but they leave with something deeper — a sense of empowerment and personal growth. They begin contributing ideas more freely, participating in problem-solving in ways they may have previously been hesitant to do. They leave feeling more fulfilled, respected, and confident — not just as communicators, but as individuals. When my students learn to express themselves more openly, honestly, and confidently their personal relationships improve, workplace opportunities expand, and they feel more capable of asking for what they need and resolving conflicts constructively.
My advice to everyone is to learn to truly listen. Listen with the intention of understanding — not responding. Seek to understand what is important to the other person, their needs, their intentions, and their concerns. Avoid forming conclusions based on assumptions or pre-judgments. Once you are confident you understand them accurately, then share your thoughts openly, honestly, and respectfully.
If you need help with this, you can always join me in the classroom.
