Steve Chapman
Reporter
Q&A: Sherry Wilson
How long have you taught at Crowder?
This is my 10th year at Crowder.
What are your degrees?
I have a [Bachelor’s of Science in Education] from Missouri Southern [State University], a [Master’s of Science in Education] from Pittsburg State [University], and a [Philosophy Doctorate] from the University of Georgia.
Where have you taught besides Crowder?
I have taught K-12 in a variety of districts in several states. In addition to Crowder, I have taught higher education at the University of Arkansas, University of the Ozarks, and John Brown University.
What is your position at Crowder, and what do your duties include?
I am chair of the Developmental Studies division. The classes in my division include developmental reading and writing courses, Student Success courses, English as a Second Language courses, and College Orientation. I teach the developmental courses and Student Success courses.
How do you balance work with personal time?
I balance work and my personal time with a strong support system. My family is wonderful.
What do you like the most about your job at Crowder?
My favorite aspect of Crowder College is the people. The students are wonderful. They come to school excited to learn and to take advantage of new opportunities. The members of the faculty and staff are student centered and enjoy showing how much they care.
Why did you choose to teach at Crowder instead of another school, such as University of Arkansas or Missouri Southern State University?
Crowder allows me to be directly involved with students in a caring atmosphere.
How long do you plan to remain with Crowder?
I would love to earn my 30-year pin.
What are your favorite activities to do when you are not working?
I enjoy reading, water sports, traveling, and spending time with my family.
What is your favorite food?
I enjoy a variety of foods. My mother’s German chocolate cake is my favorite.
If you were a super hero, what would be your powers? Your weakness?
Sorry, I’m not a super hero. I’m just a flawed instructor trying to encourage students to meet their potential.
If you were not at Crowder, what would you be doing for a living?
I have always wanted to teach. I guess I would be teaching.
Growing up, who influenced you the most, and how?
I was influenced by my parents. They constantly encourage and support me.
Name a person you would most like to meet, and explain why.
I would like to meet Jesus. I am thankful that he was willing to die on the cross for my sins and rose again so I could have a personal relationship with God. I am looking forward to living with him in heaven for eternity.
Name a treasured memory.
I have too many memories to make a list. I spent my growing up years traveling because my dad was in the Air Force.
What is the hardest thing you have ever had to do?
Going to Georgia to live by myself was difficult.
Tell us about your family.
I have a husband, Steve, and two girls, Marina and Sierra. Marina is grown and Sierra is a seventh grader.
What is your favorite movie, and why?
I enjoy a variety of movies. My most recent “favorite” is Lincoln by Spielberg. I really enjoyed how Spielberg took the time to build well rounded characters in a historically accurate story.
In your mind, what is the reason the chicken crossed the road?
He was being creative.
Name one of your childhood ambitions.
I wanted to be an Air Force fighter pilot. Unfortunately, I was a short girl with poor vision.
What is the best way to get on your good side?
Be yourself.
If you were to write a book, what would be the title?
I wrote a book, my dissertation. It deals with what children know about how they are paying attention.
What is your favorite holiday, and why?
Christmas. The extended family members on my mother’s side get together. There are about a hundred of us. It is noisy and a lot of fun.
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