Favorite Business Publication:
Mailbox
Hobbies/Sports:
Reading historical novels; Counted cross-stitching; Collecting rubber stamps, angels and teddy bears; Spending time with her grandchildren; Cardio-kickboxing
Education Degrees:
Master's Degree in Elementary Education and Computer Technology, University of Colorado
Affiliations Awards:
Harrison Education Association; Colorado Education Association; National Education Association
Children's Names:
William Charles (Chip), Scott Patrick
Work History:
Clerical Typist, Office of Migrant Education, Fort Lauderdale, FL; Loan Officer, Luke Federal Credit Union, Luke Air Force Base, AZ; Realtor, Coldwell Banker, Northern Virginia; Bank Teller, First Virginia Bank, Falls Church, VA; Manager, Evans Jewelry, Department Store, Falls Church, VA; Elementary School Teacher, Tucson Unified School District, Tucson, AZ; Elementary School Teacher, Harrison School District, Colorado Springs, CO
Throughout the duration of your career, what was the one highlight that stood out the most?:
The highlight of her career was earning a master's degree.
Charity:
Via De Cristo, Holy Cross Lutheran Church; Stephen Ministries
Number Of Years In Profession:
21
What Does He/She Attribute Success To:
She attributes her success to the support she receives from her family and colleagues.
Why did you become involved in your profession or industry?:
She became involved in her profession through her childhood aspirations to be an educator and become just like her first-grade teacher.
Extended Bio Profile:
She greatly attributes her success to her supportive husband, Chuck. He encouraged her to return to school to earn bachelor's and master's degrees. She was inspired by all the teachers she had while growing up, they always reinforced her early decision to teach and follow in their footsteps. She is also encouraged by her students, every time one of their faces light up when they grasp a new concept. She is very passionate about God, and believes that she can accomplish anything through her faith in Him. She gains a sense of accomplishment every time she sees her children succeed, as well as being thanked by their parents. Her favorite saying is, "Make your life great. Say you can." She cautions others aspiring to enter into the profession to not let politics prevent them from being there for the children. She would like to dedicate this recognition to her 11-year-old grandson, Joshua, because she sees in his eyes all the success he has had so far and wants to see him enjoy so much more in the future. She married her husband, Chuck, on April 25, 1969. They were married for 33 1/2 years before he passed. They have two sons, William Charles Odell III, (Chip), and Scott Patrick Odell. Ms. Odell retired in May 2008.
Position Responsibilities and Duties:
Teaching kindergarten students