Name: Jenna Beverley
Town: Batavia
Years in the COE/NIU: 2.5
Job title: Academic Advisor
Responsibilities: I advise elementary education, middle level education and our PLEDGE cohort at Elgin Community College.
Where else have you worked and what did you do there? I am a former educator. I worked 10 years as a K-5 Music teacher in West Aurora 129, Cambridge Lakes Charter School and Batavia School District 101.
How did you come to the COE? I was looking for a way to continue serving in education outside of the classroom, and I found my way to the COE!
What is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of my job is working with pre-service teachers and being part of their journey toward becoming educators. I love getting to know students, helping them through the inevitable challenges of college and watching their confidence grow as they realize they really can do this. Knowing that I’m supporting future teachers who will eventually make a difference in the lives of their own students is incredibly meaningful to me.
What are you most proud of in your work (and why)? I’m most proud of my ability to advocate for students and find solutions when things get complicated. There are often many moving pieces in a student’s academic journey/ teacher licensure, and I enjoy working through those challenges to help students find a path forward. It’s rewarding to know that my work can remove barriers and make a meaningful difference in a student’s experience.
What makes you happy in your off-the-clock life? I am a musician and love to play at home or with others. I have two cats (Ren and Fynn) and love to read!
What are the words you live by? One day at a time.
