Katie Towler

What attracted you to UNI and the College of Education?
UNI is a leader in the state, and nation, in education preparation. My desire to enter higher education while impacting future educators made this the perfect career move for me.

Describe an experience that reinforces why you enjoy what you do.
As the high school principal at the Sioux City Career Academy I was fortunate enough to work with high school students who knew they wanted to become teachers. I spent time in their education classes with them and then watched as what they learned in the classroom applied to real life through their internships. Watching the dots connect for kids at such a young age is exciting and reinforces my why.

What drove your interest in your selected discipline?
I found myself taking on administrative duties when I was a school counselor. I work under administrators who were managers and under others who were leaders. I wanted to be a principal who knew when to be tight and when to be loose. I saw teachers, and in return their students, flourish under the right leadership and I knew I could be that person.

What are your areas of expertise? For what topics might you be considered a "subject matter expert"?
Educational Leadership
Career and Technical Education Program Management
School Counseling
English
Communication

What do you hope students learn from you?
Under my guidance, I hope my students have the confidence to someday have their own classrooms. I hope they understand the importance of relationships, compassion, high expectations, professionalism, communication, and flexibility.