ULLIN, IL (April 25, 2023) – As the 2022-23 academic year winds down, Shawnee Community College is pleased to announce that this year’s Faculty of the Year recipient is Cosmetology Instructor Wendy Harris.
Harris has been an educator for 18 years, spending the last six years at Shawnee Community College. This year marks her 33rd year as a licensed cosmetologist.
In addition to her teaching duties, Wendy serves on Shawnee’s Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion Team and the College’s Curriculum and Instruction Team. She is the Shawnee College Cosmetology Club’s faculty advisor and has represented SCC on the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) Faculty Advisory Committee.
Wendy has conducted feasibility studies for and created seven new courses for Shawnee Community College that received ICCB approval. Four advanced education courses for licensed professionals for extended business and skill certifications and Barbering and Esthetics were included.
Additionally, Wendy developed six in-program certifications for career advancement for current cosmetology students. Wendy is very proud of her program graduates. She is pleased to showcase a 98 percent licensing exam pass rate with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulations and an 80 percent employment rate of licensed graduates.
“I strive to create an environment in the classroom that is often the first vessel in which students can experience open communication pathways and receive guidance in developing creative solutions that inspire flexibility and growth in each student’s career and life journey,” said Harris.
Outside of the classroom, Wendy is on the Legislative Board of the Illinois Association of Cosmetology Schools. She is a member of good standing in the Associated Hair Professionals and Professional Beauty Association, where she is an ambassador in the Cut It Out—Fight Against Domestic Violence campaign. Wendy is also a Volunteer Coordinator for the American Cancer Society—Look Good Feel Better division.
“I want to share and encourage students to use my knowledge and experiences as tools to explore an enhanced employment and career journey for themselves. My goal is to prepare my students so well that they can reach the success they desire as professionals and possible business entrepreneurs,” said Harris.
Wendy is also very proud of her lifetime membership achievement in the Lioness Club and is an Illinois Court Appointed Child Welfare Advocate. Wendy represents the mission and values of SCC as she positively contributes to higher education while inspiring and challenging students and supporting her fellow Saints family.