The Wright Times

Issue date: 2/1/10 Section: Arts & Culture

Media Credit: Kathlyn Talapian

Jane Wagoner has seen it all. From volunteering in the PeaceCorps in the Philippines, to being advisor for Student Government and Phi Theta Kappa, she's worked with a compassion for students and teaching. "My motto is to be fair and to be kind to others," Wagoner said.

Wright Times: How long have you been teaching at Wright?
Jane Wagoner: In 1973, I was hired by the Chicago City-wide College to work in the College Acceleration Program wherein I went around to different high schools and taught senior students. I worked there until 1992 when they closed and I was transferred here at Wright. I have been here since then.

WT: What do you like most about community colleges?
JW: I teach at a community college because it's the gateway. We call Wright College this, and truly, it's not just a name because it really means something. Here, we service all students. We can take students who couldn't have opportunities to succeed on other schools or who are academically very strong. At wright, everyone has a seat at the table.

WT: What challenges have you experienced as a teacher?
JW: the most challenging expereience is to get the students to believe in themselves. Particularly with the research paper course, many students come with a feeling that it is going to be hard and so much work. I teach them a step-by-step process, wherein we do a little bit at a time so they don't have to do it all at the last minute.

WT: on the contrary, what is your best experience in teaching?
JW: It would have to be when I teach a class wherein students enjoy being there, and I sense camaraderie. I like it when they start to get to know each other. I love using Blackboard because it builds a ense of community to students.

WT: Who serves as your inspiration in teaching?
JW: It is my mother who taught Social Science in fifth grade. I used to help her, decorating her bulletin boards and checking quizzes with answer sheets.

WT: What is your favorite novel and why?
JW: My favorite book is probably Emma by Jane Austin. Emma is my favorite because of her strong character. She's someone who has been able to draw characters that speak to us even today in terms of love and family struggles. Austin's characters also have flaws they had to accept to form a relationship with someone else.

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