When I came to college here in the Atlanta area, I found my home. The big city, with all of its opportunities, captured me. During my junior year at Agnes Scott, I met my soul mate, Howard Dean; and we were married three years later when I was working on my master’s degree in communication disorders at Emory University. Thirty-two years and three wonderful children later, we are still sweethearts!

Today Howard and I have three grown children, a precious granddaughter, and a yellow Lab named Kacee. Our oldest son, Christopher, is a graduate of Clemson University and is married to Allyson, who is beautiful inside and out. This summer their first child, Audrey was born nine weeks early!  She is a tiny miracle and the love of everyone in our family.   Kevin just graduated from Georgia Tech, just rented his first home with a fenced yard for his own dog, and is entering graduate school at Georgia  Tech in the fall. Melissa, a junior at Georgia Tech, is incredibly involved in campus and service activities, yet maintains great grades. All three graduated from GACS. My family is my gift from God!

I’ve always been interested in communication, language, learning styles and strategies, and brain function. For 26 years, I was a speech/language pathologist before deciding to shift gears and become a teacher. I’ve always worked with children, ages newborn to 18 because there is such energy and excitement in working with youth.

When my children passed through the junior high years, I fell in love with the age. So much happens so quickly! Early adolescents are so capable and absolutely full of life, curiosity, and potential. I value working with each student.

Yes, I did say each one. I believe that each of us is a unique creation, one of God’s beloved children. Each should be treated with dignity and respect, with a transforming love which comes from our Father.