Diane Bishop, an adjunct faculty member at Rasmussen University, has touched the lives of many students throughout her journey in education.
Diane’s goal as an educator is to inspire and have a positive impact on others, encouraging them to see the value in a high-quality education. She is committed and determined to provide the best education she can to all. Diane feels that students learn best in a stimulating and safe environment where ample opportunities are given to offer complete engagement. A student should feel confident in expressing their individuality while building confidence along the way. Diane recognizes students learn in different ways and at their own pace, and she understands the need for differentiating curriculum and teaching practices.
Diane has always known she wanted to be an educator. As a young child, she idolized her teachers and knew this was the path she wanted to take.
“Some of my elementary educators inspired me to be the best I could be. Even through some academic challenges, they held me up and gave me the individualized support I needed to be successful. Never once did I feel any less than others, and [I] strived to do my very best—always,” says Diane. She chose Rasmussen based on its reputation for providing high-quality educational programs and understood the impact the University has on shaping the lives of future educators.
One of many things Diane prides herself in is her open communication with students. From day one, she has encouraged students to reach out to her for any matter. For some students with extenuating circumstances, Diane worked with them by creating plans to complete coursework and focus on their physical well-being and mental health. Every case was unique, as was every plan she made.
Diane has received many messages of feedback from students that she had individual plans for or offered a little more support in continuing their education and learning to balance work, home, school and health-related matters.
“Hello Diane.... Thank You So much for being so flexible, and through everything else I look forward to your class. Your lessons are detailed, and the samples and rubrics are so helpful,” says a student of Diane’s.
“Diane Bishop is an extremely understanding instructor. She gets back to students in a timely manner and is extremely understanding. She is thorough in explaining all of what she expects with each assignment. I am learning a lot from Diane, and I am grasping the concepts because she is very clear with what she expects from us students. I am fortunate to have her as my instructor and I highly recommend her to others,” says another student.
Diane has had many individuals help her along the way, guiding and mentoring her. A few Diane noted are Joyce Monfort, one of the faculty that welcomed Diane into the Rasmussen community. Diane appreciated her warm welcome and mentorship as she began this journey. Dr. Mary Muhs, department chair for Early Childhood Education and Human Services at Rasmussen University, continues to inspire Diane with her dedication, support and commitment to the field of early childhood education.
Jennifer Stoker is Diane’s dean and has always been accessible and available. She has been very receptive to Diane’s questions and provides guidance whenever necessary.
Regina Jackson has been a tremendous resource and provided great support to Diane and students that were interested in pursuing the CDA credential.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today at Rasmussen if it weren’t for these individuals and many more not listed. Rasmussen is a wonderful community who encourages and inspires everyone to do their best,” Diane mentions.
“Everyone is capable of learning. We as educators need to understand and appreciate the uniqueness of every student,” says Diane. “We then differentiate, support, encourage, inspire and celebrate students as they flourish and grow!"
