In the Spotlight: Dr. Michelle Majewski
Katie Leist
Issue date: 2/3/10 Section: Opinion
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The life of an educator is often measured in fifty-five and ninety minute time slots, in five weekdays, and in two semesters and one summer vacation. However, anyone that has experienced higher education realizes that the time and effort put forth by educators cannot be measured in minutes; rather, it is measured through the empowerment, growth and successes of students.
Marian University and the Marian community has benefited from the dedication, passionate service and exceptional teaching of Dr. Michelle Majewski. For twenty-two years Dr. Majewski has taught, mentored and supported Marian students in their educational careers. Having taught psychology and graduate courses, chaired various committees and departments, and taken on numerous leadership roles Dr. Majewski has been monumental in the education and growth of Marian students.
Since joining the Marian community in 1987, Majewski has been able to create and reflect on countless Marian memories. After looking back on her experiences Majewski was able to recall an evening filled with friendship, laughter and lots of baking. As an advisor to the psychology club Majewski opened her kitchen to her students and invited members of the club to bake fortune cookies for an upcoming fundraiser. Needless to say, no one expected the task to last until one o'clock in the morning; however, this is just one example of the endless support and friendship that Majewski offers to her students. "I am so thankful for the wonderful experiences that I have had here at Marian," stated Majewski. "Getting to know these young adults and having the opportunity to witness the growth of my students beyond the classroom is remarkable."
As a professor, Majewski brought her expertise and life experiences into the classroom and encouraged her students to reach further then they thought possible. "I believe that by setting the bar high and by having high standards within the classroom my students are able to better understand this discipline," explained Majewski. "In addition to expressing my expectations I feel it is just as important, if not more, to be there for my students and to help them reach their true potential."
In her second year as Founding Dean of the School of Criminal Justice, Majewski is able to experience higher education in new and exciting ways. "I absolutely love it," exclaimed Majewski. "I love coming to work and interacting with the fabulous faculty, staff and students here at Marian." As a founding dean, Majewski remains connected to Marian students and is dedicated to providing them with beneficial experiences. In working with the Criminal Justice Club and by opening her door to students Majewski is able to stay current about ongoing events and listen to the input of her constituents.
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