Faculty Stories: Stephanie Vlach

Stephanie Vlach


Program: Physical Education, Fitness and Sports Studies

 

After years of athletic experiences spanning her youth through college, Stephanie Vlach saw physical education as a natural career progression.

“Being involved with physical activity and sport has had a tremendous role in the strength of my physical, psychological and emotional health throughout life,” she said. “Therefore, I aspired to help guide and lead others who were interested in a similar career path as well as striving for personal longevity and overall wellness.”

Her many positions in the PE, sport and fitness industries include exercise physiology, personal training, group fitness instruction, coaching, intercollegiate athletics, fitness management, sport marketing, consulting and freelance writing.

Vlach’s career in education started at the Latin School of Chicago, where she instructed middle and upper school physical education as well as coached men’s and women’s cross-country and track and field. She then taught in the Health and Fitness Promotion Department at Aurora University, followed by teaching in the Exercise and Sports Studies Department at Benedictine University. 

Teaching wasn’t a given for Vlach, even while in college.

“I recall my undergraduate advisor urging me to go into education and my response was always, ‘I am never going to teach PE.’ Well, here I am!” she said. “I now know this is where I am supposed to be. I genuinely enjoy spending time in the classroom and sharing knowledge with students. The moment that knowledge transfers and ‘the light bulb goes on’ when a student finally realizes their capabilities are such rewarding experiences.”    

Vlach hopes her students develop self-confidence as learners, build on their strengths, gain applicable knowledge, find an interest in the subject matter and realize the importance of trying. 

“I also hope my students understand that education and career growth is an ever-changing, lifelong journey and that I am an advocate and advisor for them while at COD and beyond,” she said.   

She also draws inspiration from what’s happening around her on a daily basis.

“A colleague’s amazing teaching methods, a student’s unique idea, my kids, a beautiful work of art, a kind word, a positive attitude, one’s bravery, a new trend or training technique, and the hard work that goes on in our buildings every day working toward a common goal—these experiences encourage me to continue learning, growing and excelling at what I do, not only as an instructor but also as a person.”

More about the Physical Education, Fitness and Sports Studies program