"I've taught at institutions large and small all over the country, including the University of Connecticut, the University of Arizona, and Seton Hall. But I've spent the past 30 years as a biology professor at Cecil College because I like the diversity of students. I have students who are adults returning to the classroom and students who are fresh out of high school. I love what happens when they all come together.

We have small class sizes so we really get to know each other. We joke with one another and everyone helps each other out. I see students go from being unsure and insecure to becoming confident and successful. That's the prize.

I tell students they're just opening the door to their future. I encourage them to continue their studies at a four-year institution. For many, that's the first time they've been told they can succeed in college.

Cecil does provide a very supportive environment for students, from their advisors to the free services we offer, such as our writing and math labs, and peer tutoring.

Cecil truly opens doors and allows students to express themselves and their potential."

"When I was 14 years old, my dance teacher let me start working with the young dancers at the studio and I found out right away that I liked teaching and sharing knowledge with others. I previously worked at public high schools in more urban areas before coming to Cecil more than 20 years ago.

Looking to raise our children in a suburban location, my husband and I moved our family here from Staten Island, N.Y. and I began my Cecil College career by choreographing for the Covered Bridge Theatre. This position led to adjunct teaching, which then led to full-time employment.

Whether you are a prospective or current student, I advise you to be serious about college even though we may be just a few miles from your home and are not a large university. The opportunities here will prove valuable for those who take advantage of all that we offer.

I really like the location of Cecil with its rural flavor. We have a lovely campus with a welcoming atmosphere and provide quality education to students of all ages."

"I enjoy helping students learn about criminal justice through my experiences in the field as a patrolman and detective as well as in the classroom as an instructor at two other community colleges.

I am very impressed with how Cecil is dedicated to making criminal justice a priority with the real positive attitude surrounding it. The open-door policy of the administration to change the program is fantastic. We place a strong emphasis on providing a hands-on approach with guest speakers and field trips.

I encourage you to take advantage of all the opportunities we are providing for the criminal justice majors to earn a degree in such a short timeframe. The classes here are small and you get individual attention during all lectures. I believe this is necessary during the foundation courses of any higher education experience."

"I had always loved teaching but couldn't get a full-time physical education job in New Jersey. I started running on a rescue squad and loved it, so I moved back home to enroll at Widener University to become a nurse. I then spent a few years in emergency nursing before coming to Cecil in 1994.

I love coming to work because the faculty and leadership have a genuine care and concern for the students. The small class sizes and personal nature of faculty advisement enable us to provide a level of one-on-one support that most public four-year institutions can't offer. If you feel your needs are not being met, just ask someone for help.

I have stayed at Cecil for a long time because I have always been encouraged to develop myself professionally. There is a very collegial environment in the nursing program, which has grown through the years and does a great job of keeping current, even with the larger colleges."

"My decision to come to Cecil was greatly influenced by the members of the math department who were very welcoming during my interview and seemed like they would be great to work with. I made the right choice as I have found myself to be supported with technology, funding for professional development, and by the people who work hard every day behind the scenes.

I have taught at several other colleges, including The Ohio State University, Columbus State Community College, and the University of Akron. The biggest difference between those schools and Cecil is that the student population here is extremely diverse in life experiences, ability and motivation for attending.

The instructors here want you to succeed, but you must take responsibility for your learning. While Cecil College is certainly a great place to enrich your life, it's only what you make of it. You need to be proactive in your education and ask for help when an honest effort isn't cutting it. When the results are lower than expected, you should think about what you can change to do better next time."

"I have been known to say that it would take dynamite to blow me away from teaching at Cecil College. I love the campus, the students and the overall college environment.

I grew up in North East and am amazed with how the college has grown over the years. The infrastructure has been enhanced to the point that it is almost unrecognizable from what I remember it being.

I became a professor because I wanted to inspire students to have a love for business and entrepreneurship like I do. I advise you to take advantage of every opportunity that we have to offer. Cecil College loves it students."