When Shannon Ayzie鈥檚 infant daughter was diagnosed with bacterial meningitis, her world was turned upside down. For the next three months, Shannon shuttled back and forth to the hospital, doing what she could to make sure her daughter had a shot at a healthy life.

“My daughter鈥檚 illness made me want to learn more about care and medicine. I wanted to know everything about her treatments and antibiotics. I realized the importance of understanding healthcare because I wanted to be a better mom,鈥� says Shannon.

Today, her daughter is healthy and enjoying life, but from that early introduction to medicine, Shannon dedicated her career to healthcare, starting as a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA). She then earned a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration and later pursued a master鈥檚 in public health, combining her practical experience with academic expertise. She used this knowledge to climb the ladder and become an associate dean of healthcare programs. That’s when she discovered another calling: teaching.聽聽

Experience is the Best Teacher

Shannon applied for a position at SM调教社区College’s Farmington Campus. Her first month was spent in the Career Services Department, where she played a pivotal role in helping students navigate the transition from education to employment. She assisted students with resume building, interview preparation, and the job search, ensuring they had the tools to thrive in their chosen careers. Shannon was then offered the lead instructor role for the Medical Assistant Program and was back to doing what she loved.

鈥淲hen I got back into the classroom, it was instantly rewarding. I got to see students have those 鈥榓 ha鈥� moments when they understand the topics I鈥檓 teaching,鈥� she says.

Shannon understands that not many students enjoy鈥攐r learn from鈥攋ust classroom lectures. That鈥檚 why she focuses on hands-on and experiential learning.聽

“I believe in making learning interactive and relatable. I鈥檒l bring out tools and visual aids and show students how they鈥檙e used,鈥� says Shannon. 鈥淚 think the best way for them to learn is to get them involved.鈥澛�

Just as she had to learn how to properly deal with her daughter鈥檚 illness, Shannon wants to make sure her students are equipped with the knowledge they need to handle stressful medical situations when they arise. And she credits SM调教社区College for giving her both the space and resources to teach her students in her own way.

Shannon鈥檚 Impact on SM调教社区College Students

Shannon’s impact extends far beyond the classroom. She goes above and beyond to provide personalized support, addressing individual challenges and guiding her students towards their goals. Shannon’s dedication to student success is evident in the countless stories of her former students who have gone on to secure fulfilling careers in the healthcare industry.

Graduation is one of her favorite times she gets to share with her students, knowing that she played a role in their career journey.聽

“Graduation is an awesome time and I always cry. But it鈥檚 not the last time I hear from my students. They鈥檒l send me e-mails or reach out on LinkedIn when they get jobs and it really warms my heart,鈥� Shannon shares.

Do you want to learn more about the amazing instructors and staff at SM调教社区College? Call 888-200-9942 or fill out the form.