Division Chair, Associate Professor of Education
Division
Teacher Education
Degrees
Ph.D. (Educational Leadership in Higher Education), Western Michigan University
M.A. (Early Childhood), Western Michigan University
B.S., Calvin College
B.A., Cornerstone University
Publications
Courses
What can students expect from your classes? From your division?
Students can expect hands-on, student-centered and life-experience learning in my classrooms. Early childhood education is an exciting, research-based discipline that offers many career path opportunities.
Of all the classes that you may teach, which one are you most passionate about?
Education 352: Preprimary Methods and Materials, without a doubt! Each week I set up a different learning center that would typically be found in an early childhood classroom. I then encourage my students to remember what learning through play feels like and looks like to a young child. We often get on our knees to help in that reflective process! One of our favorite weeks is mud, sand and water play!
Advice for College Students
My advice to students who are interested in early childhood education would be to never give up their dream to teach young children. If God calls you to this field, he is faithful to supply the perfect job or ministry that will fit your skills and abilities in spite of any economy!
Family Information
Where were you born or raised?
Hastings, Mich.
Family information:
Married to Ken junior. We have two Pembroke Welsh Corgis. Also, I enjoy spending time with and sowing into the lives of our 14 nieces and nephews.
Interests and Passions Outside of Teaching
Reading, writing and walking my corgis.
Mentors/Role Models
Who is a person from your field of study whom you identify with and why?
Dr. Maxine Margesson is a person with whom I identify in my field of study. She was my principal when I did my student teaching and then later was my division chair here at Cornerstone University. I learned so much from her — wisdom on how to deal with various situations, grace and strength to handle the tough times in life. She always displayed the joy of the Lord in her life and inspires everyone who meets her. She is one of my heroes.
Also, I would like to add that my mother, who was a teacher, is another hero who has inspired me. I love to hear about the days when she taught in a one-room school house with grades K-8. She instilled the love for learning in her students and taught them with a firm but loving style that was reflective of God’s love shining through her.
My grandmother also taught in a one-room school house and taught kindergarteners in Sunday school for many years. In fact, she taught her class the day before she left this world for a much better place! She left me the legacy of faithful service to the Lord.
Favorite Inspirational Quote or Bible Verse
“Let my teaching fall like rain and my words descend like dew, like showers on new grass, like abundant rain on tender plants” (Deuteronomy 32:2).
“You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand” (Psalm 16:11).
Favorite Thing About Cornerstone University
My favorite thing about Cornerstone University is the focus on the most important person, Jesus Christ. We are a Christian family of employees who strive to make Christ known to our students and then to the world that they will someday touch. It is truly the best ripple effect!
Additional Information
Phone
Email
Kerisa/Myers|cornerstone/edu
