Modeling excellenceLowry joined the faculty at WOU in 2002. A talented teacher with more

than 30 years experience in the fi eld, she brings a wealth of experience and

professional development experience to the division. Colleagues term her “an

exemplar of the ideal teacher.”

Judy teaches courses in content pedagogy in the language arts and social

studies, as well as the professional development seminar. She also teaches early

childhood courses, focusing on elementary students.

Judy remains active professionally as well, and is the incoming President

fro the Oregon Council for Social Studies. Her professional development

activities keep her abreast of current developments in the fi eld. She is a

member of the Steering Committee of the Geographic Alliance, and

on the leadership team sponsored by the National Geographic Society

to promote geographic literacy throughout Oregon.

Gwenda Rice, Chair of the Division of Teacher Education

observes, “Judy is one of our most respected supervisors in the fi eld,

highly regarded by mentor teachers and administrators.”

Judy spent her professional career in Silverton, and says she still

misses the kids. Her teaching experience includes grades four through

eight, in both elementary and middle school.

Student centered Sue Th ompson, Director of Field Services, acknowledges, “she has a hundred

diff erent strategies and resources at her fi ngertips. She’ll give as much time as

needed to provide students with the tools they need to be successful in the

classroom.” For example, in the content pedagogy class, each day Judy models

diff erent imaginative ideas to get class started.

Judy off ers students all the support they need to be successful. She is

especially adept at nuturing prospective teachers who may be struggling or

feeling overwhelmed. She is a valued student mentor.

“Th e students here are wonderful,” Judy comments. “I get them near the

end of the program, when they are getting ready for their fi rst jobs. Th ey are so

eager for anything you can give them, so receptive.”

Teachers teaching teachersJudy loves teaching at Western. “Th e staff is so supportive,” she notes. “I always

feel included. Th e atmosphere is cohesive and collaborative.”

Th is position allows Judy to share her considerable knowledge and experience

and to give back to the community. “Th e teaching program at Western really

off ers students the best of both worlds. Th e academic faculty provide specialized

knowledge and instruction for students, while experienced teachers share real world

experiences and guide students on their own professional journey.”

What her students say