Office of Institutional Diversity and Inclusion
The distinctive character of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is defined by the faculty's demonstrated capability to fulfill the values of the Teacher Scholar Philosophy; a philosophy guided by a serious and continuing commitment to teaching, scholarship and service in the belief that scholarship complements and enriches excellence in teaching and service.
Adapted from the Teacher Scholar Philosophy of SIUE, Teacher Scholar Philosophy Working Group, 6/2/08
| Dr. Cynthia Schmidt |
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| Recent Honors / Awards / Recognition: | Primary Courses: N234: Human Development Across the Lifespan | Education: 1972, BSN, Saint Louis University 1976, MSN, Saint Louis University 1997, Ph.D., Saint Louis University |
| How does SIUE support your professional growth or activity as a Teacher-Scholar? Perhaps most important to my professional growth, however, is the culture of our University. There is an inherent understanding that excellence in education is the expectation and mediocrity is not acceptable. As a group, faculty share effective teaching strategies, celebrate the scholarship and service accomplishments of others, provide thoughtful consideration of the educational environment, and take seriously our commitment to the community." What is a unique aspect of your professional life that enhances your service to the academic or greater community?"My experiences as a nurse have enhanced my ability to serve as one of the University’s Faculty Ombudsman. Key to being an effective nurse is having effective interpersonal, communication, and critical thinking skills. Additionally, nurses are expected to treat all individuals with respect and to maintain confidentially. I have always respected and honored that aspect of my nursing role and it has been beneficial to my service in the role of Faculty Ombudsman." Please share how one mentor or event shaped your career decision to become a university professor. "This question required some consideration as it was difficult to identify a single mentor or event which 'shaped my career decision.' I believe, however, that the one thing which probably led to my decision to become a professor and to stay engaged in scholarship is the belief that others have expressed in me. A senior faculty member encouraged me to earn a Ph.D. when I was unsure I could attain that goal; the Chair of my Ph.D. committee was demanding yet always encouraging and complimentary of the importance of my work; and a close colleague, Dr. Laura Bernaix, has consistently supported and praised my scholarship and teaching practices. Additionally, I feel passionate about preparing future nurses to care for children. I enjoy helping students learn how best to interact with children, the fears children may have during hospitalization, the importance of healthy lifestyle habits, and how to assist families in restoring the health of ill children." |
