ENMU is different from many other schools because of the level of student/teacher interaction. That, along with the welcoming community, is what sold Dr. Dean on settling in Portales to live out her dream of teaching.
After receiving an undergraduate degree and two master's degrees, Dr. Dean has accomplished her ultimate career goal of earning her Ph.D. at the University of Oregon.
"I came here because I love the teaching aspect and interacting with students. It's all about trying to engage students, seeing how they react and then adapting," said the avid photographer.
She worked as a journalist for six years before returning to school to get her second master's and doctorate.
"I love journalism, but I also love school. I love learning new things. Journalism and academia are similar environments; they are fast paced, cutthroat and both have the nuances of truly learning and being excited about it," said Dr. Dean.
Although she is from Minnesota and most recently lived in Oregon, it was not a difficult move to New Mexico. She is familiar with the area because she once interned at the Albuquerque Journal. She had been hoping to move west, but did not think she would find a job here.
"When I tell people I'm from Oregon they say, ‘and you moved here?!' like it's so terrible, but really it's just another unique town to live in," said the new Portales resident.
Dr. Dean enjoys skiing and hiking, often has accompanied by her dog. She hopes to travel and explore as much as she can. She has many passions and skills to share and is impressed by the level of engagement she has seen from her students, so far.
"It's making the most of what you have and enjoying it. I don't go out looking for problems every day; I go out to enjoy the day," said Dr. Dean
Although she has her Ph.D., the professor is a lifelong student. She loves learning, experiencing different things and challenging herself. She is looking forward to the challenges that may come with teaching in this environment. Small class settings, like at ENMU, create a much easier flow for discussion.
"It's scary as a professor, because what if I can't answer a question. Being scared is also one of the best things that can happen because it requires me and students to look at things differently," said Dr. Dean.
