Dr. Wendy Miner

I taught for 11 years in Virginia Beach City Public Schools. In addition, I taught adjunct classes for Hampton University and University of Virginia.

Currently, I am working on a study examining beginning teachers and expertise in the field. I will begin a study in the fall examining teacher expertise and beginning teachers who have different internships (e.g., semester, full-year) from TSU and other universities. In addition, I am working on a study that will examine AP credits and liberal arts education as a part of research on gifted learners.

I am currently on the Leadership Committee, which I was selected through the National Association of Gifted Children
Professional Development Committee Chair for the National Association of Gifted Children 2004-2007
Nominated for Professor Educator of the Year at Truman State University - Finalist 2004
Nominated for the William O’Donnell Lee Advising Award 2002-2003
Scholastic Enhancement Experience program mentor
Truman Educator of the Year finalist

What attracted you to teaching at Truman?

There are several reasons why Truman is a great place to teach. The students are superb and I have wonderful colleagues. We also have an excellent Liberal Arts undergraduate program and Masters of Arts in Education Program.

What do you think makes Truman unique?

A public liberal arts university is very unique. Students engage in research that is of superb quality, have excellent opportunities for internships, service learning, and study abroad.

What has been your most memorable experience at Truman?

I was so nervous my first days here and I was assigned a student assistant. She came in and introduced herself as Gretchen Ott. I thought it was all one name so I ran around introducing her as Gretchenott all day long until FINALLY she said something about it being her first and last name. I was mortified.(She wouldn’t mind me telling this story at all).

What has been your greatest accomplishment or success while teaching at Truman?

I have many, but I will share two. First, I am the coordinator of the Clayton/Truman Connection, which is a partnership with the Clayton School District. We have had this partnership for six years and it is wonderful. Our interns have tremendous experiences and our colleagues there are excellent teachers. Plus, I get to learn when I am there, which I love. Second, Dr. Hammond and I created a Math Day for a service learning project that is fantastic. I love the interdisciplinary connections that we make and working with middle school students, teachers and principals.

What do you consider to be your greatest professional accomplishment?

I believe that the work I do with the National Gifted Association for Children has given me a sense of great pride, because I know that I am making a difference in their education. I absolutely love teaching and working with students so I think that making a positive difference for many, many students is a source of pride too.

What do you find unique about Truman students?

Their work ethic is unparalleled in the graduate program.

How would you describe life in Kirksville to a friend?

Wonderful. Everyone is so friendly and kind. It feels like a large family. I call this my age of Renaissance, because I can focus on my artwork.