Faculty Spotlight: Wendy Felder

Wendy Felder enrolled in shorthand and typing through the Office Careers program at College of DuPage when her life took a new twist.

"I wanted to take a few classes to develop what was then called secretarial skills," she explained. "My instructor singled me out of my classes and suggested I consider pursuing more than 'a few classes.' She suggested I pursue a degree and recommended me to the coordinator of the program for a part-time secretary position."

Felder stayed with the Office Careers program while completing her Associate in Applied Science degree. Then she was promoted to the IT department, during which she completed a bachelor's degree at National-Louis University and began her master's degree in online education.

"In the early '80s, COD began developing curriculum using PCs," she said. "I was fortunate to work with great faculty who encouraged me to learn the technology and was given the opportunity to become a full-time computer lab supervisor. As PCs evolved, so did the curriculum. I was able to continue studying and mastering my computer skills in a rewarding environment."

Felder developed and conducted several computer training seminars for faculty and staff. She discovered that the more training she led, the more she learned, and that thrill of learning is what led her to teaching.

"After several years in IT, a full-time faculty position in Office Technology Information (formerly Office Careers) became available. I applied and was granted the position in fall of 2000. Ironically, I replaced one of my mentors!"

Felder now hopes her students enjoy the thrill of learning.

"Not everyone is a master at everything he or she tries, but the confidence to try is important," she said. "Success cannot be achieved without effort! Seeing the light go on when a student gets it inspires me. One of these in a class of 30 is enough to motivate me to continue. I love it!"

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