Connie Dougherty Email and Phone Number

I am an instructional designer and adult educator who believes firmly in relationship-based, strengths-based education. All people - young and old - learn best through the context of trusting relationships that bring out the best in them. Curricula should be written, and facilitation should be structured, to create safe spaces for learning where adults can reflect on their experiences and consider their goals. Earning my degree in Early Childhood Administration gave me a broad understanding of what it means to be a school administrator and it deepened my learning about how teachers (and their leaders) can promote supportive, high-quality environments for children. Much of what we know about early childhood relationships also applies to adult relationships. My undergraduate degree in interpersonal communication - and my passion for this topic - serves me well every day. I believe that strong relationships are impossible without effective communication. I have many experiences behind me, but I will never stop learning. Among other things, I'm actively learning to be a better listener and speaker, to more fully understand what it means to value diversity and end racism, and to be an inspiring leader."No one can learn from you if you think that they suck. Can you imagine being an open and receptive learner in front of a teacher who dismisses your abilities, your thoughts, your feelings, and perhaps even your humanity?" Elena Aguilar, author