“There is no question that I am 100% behind the endeavors of the full-time faculty–which I was a part of for 40 years. Over the decades the cohesive spirit of that body has allowed this institution to be jewel in the community that it is.
Know that I will support the cause in whatever way I am able.”
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Many years ago while sitting in the classroom as a business student at Lakeland I thought about how wonderful it would be to be able to teach and be a part of the Lakeland faculty association. Not because of the salary or benefits, but because of the inspiration that the faculty provided to their students. The curriculum that was designed provided me and my classmates the training and knowledge we would need to succeed in our future careers. The “real world” experience each faculty member brought to the classroom was unique and informative. I wanted to be a part of this encouraging atmosphere and that is why I decided to pursue my bachelor’s and master of business administration degrees.
That was several years ago, and now I have had the opportunity to teach as an adjunct faculty member for many semesters. I have witnessed firsthand the time, energy, effort and devotion that Lakeland’s faculty contribute to each and every class, and most importantly each and every student. The hours and hours of preparation, follow up that include grading and editing assignments, meeting with students and fellow faculty do not begin to tell the tale of what is involved in a “3 credit hour class.” I witness on a daily basis faculty contributing their talents to ensure that our Lakeland students graduate with the best possible preparation and skills to be a successful part of our community.
There is a saying “Do not judge someone unless you have walked a mile in their shoes.” This is especially true when describing the importance that faculty play in not only a school setting but in particular a community college where the ages of students are as diverse as their ethnic backgrounds and everyday living situations. The experience that Lakeland’s faculty have with understanding the students and the obstacles they may have are a contributing factor in not only their success – but Lakeland’s success in providing an excellent educational opportunity in our community. Without the devotion of this faculty body – Lakeland would be nothing but a few buildings connected to nowhere.
It is my hope that all those involved with the decision to continue this atmosphere of success and encouragement think about the entire picture and come to a satisfactory decision in regards to the faculty contract – students and community will be the benefactor, and perhaps another adjunct faculty member who is currently sitting in the classroom being inspired.