Academic Coaching

I am a life-long learner and am excited to be working at Trine University as an Academic Coach! I received a master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Indiana University and enjoyed a fulfilling career working with children through adults on communication, language and cognitive learning processes. Next, I moved into a career at Washington State University working in the academic advising field with both undergraduates and graduate students. Being in an atmosphere of learning is an absolute inspiration to me and it is my hope that I can make a difference in student's lives.

Working with youth and young adults has been one of the best endeavors of my life. I continue to learn so much from those I teach.

As an educator, I taught at Sturgis High School in Sturgis, Michigan, for 41 years. I also coached football, basketball and track at the middle school and high school levels. I received a master's degree in learning disabilities from Michigan State University. I have an added 21 credits in education since receiving that degree.

It has been a pleasure to work at Trine University as an academic coach since the fall of 2019.

A native buckeye, I earned my Bachelor of Science in agriculture from The Ohio State University and my Master of Arts in education from the University of Findlay, focusing on integrated science. I taught high school agriculture for 18 years before leaving the classroom to become a wedding and event florist and owner of The Cocky Blossom. I live in rural northwest Ohio with my husband, two children, four dogs and numerous chickens.

My favorite part of teaching was helping students discover and pursue their passions; student success was my "why." Stepping into adulting and the college experience can be overwhelming; I'm committed to encouraging students throughout their journey and reassuring them that they're not alone and have an entire team of people cheering them on! I'm excited to be a member of the Academic Coaching team at Trine and look forward to making meaningful connections with students!

My name is Laurie Whitehead, and I have been in the field of education for over 30 years.  I am passionate about shaping minds and building futures.  I believe in inspiring excellence one student at a time.  

One of my favorite quotes that I always try to keep at the forefront of my mind is, “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” (Malcolm X)

When I am not at work, I enjoy date nights with my husband, spending time with our five children and seven grandchildren, gardening and reading.

I earned a Bachelor of Arts from Michigan State University. Early in my career, I worked in many sectors of business and hospitality. After the birth of my two daughters, I had the desire to become a teacher. I went back to study at IPFW in Fort Wayne and completed a teaching license in English, Language Arts, Masters level ENL, and then taught at several high schools and middle schools before retiring in 2018. I again found meaningful work as an Academic Coach at Trine University over the past 4 years. Helping students to achieve academic success is my abiding purpose.

In addition, I am passionate about improving and preserving our natural environment and consider this to be the most essential human focus for our time.