Instructor of Education and Psychology

Dr. Ackerman has been working in higher education for almost 30 years. She has been involved in a variety of capacities including multiple administrative roles, however, her passion is teaching. She maintains that her students keep her young, even though her biological clock would state otherwise. Because her educational background includes Psychology, Education, and Leadership, she is equipped to teach in all three of those content areas. When asked which course is her favorite one to teach, she seems to favor the one she is teaching at that moment. Yet, Educational Psychology and Developmental Psychology are among her favorites. She is also very passionate about helping students during their student teaching, serving as their university supervisor.

Dr. Ackerman has lived in Medical Lake, Washington for many years with her husband, whom she married in 1962. They have two married daughters and seven grandchildren. Dr. Ackerman loves to read Christian fiction, play the piano for her own enjoyment, watch Hallmark movies, and of course, shop. She would say one her significant accomplishments were completing her Ph.D. at age 60 and walking across the stage on her birthday to receive her diploma.

Education and Experience

  • Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Gonzaga University, 2005
  • M.S. in Psychology, with a focus in College Instruction from Eastern Washington University, 1993
  • B.A. Double major in Psychology and Sociology from Eastern Washington University, 1988