Campus Connection

Hear from the latest additions to the School of Education

The School of Education welcomed several new staff and faculty in recent months. While each has a different role to play, they all express a passion and enthusiasm for supporting the university's mission and helping students grow.

Jeanette Armstrong, director of the Institute for Professional Studies in Education

"UWL’s commitment to the whole education of students, nurturing both mind and body, makes it a truly inspiring place to work. The university’s openness to diverse perspectives and focus on constructive engagement create an intellectually vibrant community that I’m proud to be a part of."

Taylor Hamblin, assistant professor of history (SOE-affiliated)

"I'm excited to work at UWL because of its alignment with my commitment to active citizenship education. UWL's focus on civic engagement resonates deeply with my research on how school environments and local communities influence teachers’ ability to foster students' active citizenship. Additionally, UWL’s strong emphasis on social equity and academic excellence provides an ideal environment for continuing my research and pedagogical development."

Nathali Jones, teaching assistant professor of exercise and sport science (SOE-affiliated)

"As a two-time graduate of UWL, I am excited to return to campus to give back to the program that ignited my passion for physical education and teaching! Spending nearly a decade teaching, coaching and serving my past school districts in multiple roles, I hope to bring my lived experiences into the classroom to show our future educators some of the opportunities available to them post-graduation."

Amy Lein, associate professor of educational studies

"I am excited to be at UWL because I am originally from Wisconsin but have been working at a university in Louisville, Kentucky, for seven years. I am glad to be back home and so much closer to my family and looking so forward to winter sports again!"

Mariah Pfundheller, assistant professor of educational studies

"I’m really excited to be at UWL because it offers a progressive and supportive environment for both academic and personal growth. The university has a strong emphasis on employability, with a focus on real-world experience, especially in the School of Education. I’m truly impressed by the wide range of study abroad programs and the strong emphasis on learning from people who come from different cultural, religious and geographic backgrounds. I’m excited to collaborate with like-minded peers, learn from expert faculty, and engage in activities and resources available at UWL!"

Jennifer Pierce, teaching assistant professor of educational studies

"I am excited to be at UWL because I have enjoyed getting to work with the dedicated students and staff continually working toward a better future for education in Wisconsin and beyond."

Jourdan Stacey, professional development and outreach coordinator

"I’m thrilled to be returning to UW-La Crosse, not only as an alum but now as a member of the team. My time here as a student in the early childhood education program and my master’s program left a lasting impact on me. I’m excited to contribute to the university’s continued growth and success while being part of such a vibrant and supportive community! It’s truly a full-circle moment, and I look forward to making a meaningful impact here at UWL."

Dean Vesperman, assistant professor of history (SOE-affiliated)

"I am excited to work at a university and with the School of Education that is committed to preparing our future teachers to teach in a vibrant, diverse and pluralistic nation and world."

Daniel Walsh, assistant professor of educaitonal studies

"I'm excited to be at UWL because the Educational Studies Department tackles difficult questions about teaching and learning and the purpose of school in a democratic, pluralistic society. UWL students earnestly engage with us as faculty members and with their peers to also explore the same questions. This makes for a dynamic exchange of ideas and experiences."

Christy Wopat, field experience and communication specialist

"After spending over two decades in elementary and middle school classrooms, I'm super excited to work with future teachers! UWL is a magical place, and I'm super excited to be here."