FACULTY PROFILE
"My educational journey commenced with a Bachelor's degree in English/Journalism and Education from St. Joseph's College in Indiana. While interviewing the director of a special education school for a newspaper article, I was offered a position to teach disabled students. Armed with a keen desire to help children, I knew that this field was my calling. I furthered my education by completing a Master's in Education from National College of Education in Evanston, Illinois where I specialized in Educational Therapy. When this small special education school closed, I was hired by a high school district where I completed thirty-five years of service as both a special education teacher and school psychologist.
For several years, I also worked as a diagnostician and educational therapist for a clinical psychologist. I had a deep interest in understanding the "how and why" students were placed in my classroom as a secondary teacher. I was encouraged and mentored by the district school psychologist to pursue an advanced degree in this field. I received an Educational Specialist degree in School Psychology from National-Louis University in Evanston, Illinois and have been an active practitioner in this field for over thirty years. During this time, I worked with most of the state universities as a site supervisor for their practicum and internship students. I also co-facilitated the ISPA Fall Intern Workshop, served on a national advisory board for suicide prevention, wrote grants, implemented social/emotional learning, ran at-risk groups for adolescents and facilitated parent workshops. These experiences truly prepared me for my current position at Governors State University.
For almost twenty years now at GSU, I have been blessed with the opportunity to work with undergraduate and graduate students who desire to pursue a career in the helping professions. I have been inspired by their commitment, work ethic and powerful energy to make a difference. As University Lecturer, I teach primarily in the school psychology program and serve as the university supervisor for advanced practicum and internship. Establishing a strong sense of community and empowerment within the learning environment is an integral tenet of my educational philosophy.
Cancer has impacted my loved ones in a powerful way. Annually, I provide time, energy and sponsorship to my brother's fundraising event to support the needs of those battling this disease. This family effort has been able to contribute significant assistance in meaningful ways for over a decade. I am grateful to be supported in this journey by my colleagues and friends, my family and my loving husband of thirty years."
- Bonnie Dickey
CERTIFICATES & AWARDS
Illinois State Board of Education
Those Who Excel
Award of Merit
2008
Illinois State Board of Education
Those Who Excel
Certificate of Appreciation
2005
Illinois School Psychologist Association
Practitioner of the Year for Region 8
2000
Illinois State Board of Education
Those Who Excel
Award of Recognition
1995
Academy of Educators
The Foundation for Excellence in Teaching
Nominee
1986
Professional Educator License (PEL)
ENDORSEMENTS:
School Psychology
Learning Behavior Specialist
Learning Disabilities
Secondary Education
Social/Emotional Disorders
MEMBERSHIPS:
National Association of School Psychologists
Illinois School Psychologist Association