FACULTY BIOS
Olayele Adelakun, Information Systems
Judy Bundra, Music Education
Julie DeRoche, Music Performance
Richard Farkas, Political Science
Joseph Ferrari, Psychology
Lisa Gundry, Management
Matt Irvine, Digital Cinema
Andrea Lyon, Law
Amber Settle, Computer Science
Bibiana Suárez, Art/Art History
Lisa Gundry
Professor of Management
College of Commerce
What is the most rewarding aspect of teaching at DePaul?
The students I have taught bring a strong sense of curiosity and energy to their academic lives. They are interested in not only learning from me, but also learning from one another, which leads to very spirited discussions. Their interest has increased my own motivation to help them develop as professionals. This type of passion and excitement is not hard to find here. Teaching and learning at DePaul is a central part of the university experience.
What do you like best about DePaul students?
The diversity of background, experiences, and thinking styles contribute to a fuller academic life. DePaul students get involved: many belong to organizations on campus, work part-time, or are interested in research, internships and interacting with the business community while they are students. They have goals, and most work hard to achieve them.
What do students like best about the courses you teach?
My courses allow students to interact frequently and learn from one another in groups. I try to make the courses as relevant and applicable as possible to the problems and opportunities businesses face. I bring in real problems and students get the chance to come up with ideas and solutions that impact businesses in the community. I also believe that it is possible to have fun while you are learning, so students have found the exercises we do in class to be enjoyable and challenging at the same time.
What has been your greatest success while teaching here?
Motivating and helping students to go out and make a difference in organizations is of primary importance to me. One of my former students launched an innovation center in her company to help employees have an outlet for their creativity; another launched a fragrance and clothing company that is very successful. Other successes have to do with supporting and encouraging students to find what it is they are passionate about; it may not be what they thought it was when they started college, but as a professor I can help them find the courage to start down a new path that it in line with their vision of what they want to do in the world.
What makes DePaul different from other universities?
The opportunity for students and faculty to get to know one another is a distinct advantage. A learning environment of forty students, for example, is very different than one of several hundred in a cavernous lecture hall. DePaul's diversity, and connection to Chicago is very strong, and contributes to a very enriching environment that links academic life to a vibrant intellectual and cultural community. .
What would you say to prospective students considering DePaul?
DePaul is the place to come to for a high quality educational experience in one of the most vibrant communities in the world - Chicago! DePaul's curriculum is innovative - you will find courses here that other universities do not offer. At DePaul, teaching is important and our faculty is selected for their excellence. Student life is outstanding, and there are many opportunities for you to get involved in whatever interests you.
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