As a non-traditional, adult learner, I will break down the curriculum for you in a step-by-step process to help you achieve your goals. My background includes an A.S. in Mortuary Science from Briarwood College in Connecticut, a B.S. in Criminal Justice from the University of South Florida (Tampa, Florida), a master's in Criminal Forensics with a concentration in Medico-Legal Death Investigation from Florida Gulf Coast University (Fort Myers, Florida), and a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Adult Education from the University of South Florida (Tampa, Florida). In addition to these degrees, I have also earned a graduate certificate in Evaluation and another one in Post-Crisis Leadership from the University of South Florida. As a Licensed Funeral Director/Embalmer, I have worked as an HR Manager and Marketing Director at a funeral home for nearly 13 years. I am currently a professor in Funeral Service Education and much of my research has been in Mortuary Science. I bring to you both experience from the funeral home, as well as academia. I am passionate about anything related to the funeral profession: pre-need, at-need, and aftercare. My teaching philosophy is one that encompasses every aspect of the adult learner and learning style; I incorporate lecture, PowerPoint, and activities to maximize information retention. My goal for every student is to not only understand the material, but also to be able to apply it to the real world. Outside of my profession, I enjoy meditation, Words With Friends, PureBarre, as well as learning about and visiting cemeteries. I am extremely passionate and committed to helping students achieve their goals, specifically passing the National Board Exam (NBE).