The College of Applied Science and Technology (CAST) at Illinois State University is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. This series, CAST 50×50, is designed to highlight 50 faculty, staff, students, alumni, and organizations within CAST that make the college special. These notable people will tell you that every day in CAST is a great day to be a Redbird!
Today #CAST50 peeks into the School of Information Technology (IT) to feature Tonya Pierce.
Tell us about your position within CAST.
My position is instructional assistant professor in the School of Information Technology.
Tell us what lead you to teaching in Information Technology.
I was a social worker in my former life. I got burned out on social work and was looking for a new career that didn’t involve people. Computer science seemed like a good fit. However, by the time I graduated, I knew that I wasn’t going to be happy hiding behind a computer screen. Teaching was a good fit, as it allowed me to interact with people, without the in your face confrontation that was involved in my social work job, while also allowing me to use my skills. I love teaching.
What is the most unusual item in your desk drawer and how did it get there?
I inherited the contents of my desk from my predecessor. There is a buckeye in my drawer. I have no idea why it is there!
What is a common IT myth and what is the truth?
You must type ‘www’ in front of website addresses.
What do you enjoy most about your job? What is the most rewarding part of your job?
My doctorate degree is in adult education. I love developing classes. I enjoy working with students in the classroom, but the best part of my job is actually designing the course. The most rewarding part of my job is when I see develop a plan and see students learn from that plan.
Think you know someone who should be featured? Contact us!
