Being a professor at Washburn University offers the opportunity to inspire students, contribute to scholarship and be part of a supportive, academic community.
“The school treats us really well. They listen to us, it’s getting even better as a matter of fact,” said David Weed, senior English lecturer.
Weed has been part of the Washburn family since 1996, dedicating nearly three decades to the university. After earning his doctorate, a tough job market led him to an unexpected opportunity—dropping in on Washburn and speaking with the department chair, a path he sees as an unusual way to join a faculty.
“I have taught at big universities with students, they were there to have a good time, go out and party. I find Washburn students more serious, more interested in the material and that’s really nice,” Weed said.
Sally Shaw Matthews, communication studies lecturer, shared that she is having a blast at Washburn. She believes being in the communication department is like being in a community. Her most fulfilling phase of classroom teaching is to get to know students.
“I don’t want to retire as long as I can keep doing what I am doing because I love doing it. So, as long as they keep hiring me, I will do my best to keep doing what I do,” said Shaw Matthews.
Stephanie Herbster, senior mathematics and statistics lecturer, believed only crazy people were teachers while she was in high school.
In Herbster’s 11th year at Washburn she recalls joyful scenarios of her students coming up to her, talking about their experience and overcoming the fear of mathematics. She is satisfied with what she has chosen to do in her career and believes she will be at Washburn in the future.
“Seeing those moments of recognition, those moments when students get something, they put things together. When I see that happen in a student, it really is marvelous,” Weed said.
Washburn professors bring unique journeys, but their shared commitment to education and student success unites them.
Edited by Alijah McCracken and Morgan Albrecht.
