M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction and B.A. in Communications Alumna Named Executive Director of Bidwell Training Center Alumni Profile
Meet Kimberly Rassau, Ed.D.
- Job Title & Employer
- Executive Director, Bidwell Training Center
- Majors/Programs
- Curriculum & Instruction-M.A., Mass Communication-B.A.
- Minor
- Concentration: Adult Learning and Training
- Graduation
- 2007, 2006
- Hometown
- New Kensington, Pa.
- High School
- Valley High School
- Now Living In
- New Kensington, Pa.
"Kim’s extensive experience and accomplishments in career training and higher education were the first things that caught our attention in our search for a new executive director at Bidwell Training Center. Her innovative ideas peaked our interest as they will allow us to help more people in the community while also pushing BTC as a leader in the career training space. And the fact that she was a non-traditional student who can serve as a model for our students cemented her as being our choice to help steer BTC into the next 50 years.”
"My graduate education classes opened my eyes to the true power of effective instructional design as a critical component for improving learning retention in adult learners ... The various adult learning theories we explored in the curriculum and instruction graduate program have been invaluable for helping me develop more meaningful programs and courses."
How did you land your position as executive director of the Bidwell Training Center?
I was actively seeking a new opportunity when I saw the Bidwell Training Center executive director position posted on Nonprofit Talent's website. Given my understanding and appreciation of BTC’s mission to change lives by providing career training and academic enrichment to Pittsburgh area adults who are unemployed, underemployed or in transition, I immediately applied for the job.
Tell us about the work you do.
The focus of my work is to ensure BTC effectively achieves its mission by providing leadership and programmatic innovation through day-to-day operations, fiscal management, staff development and program design and development. Together with my team, I oversee initiatives that support the advancement and continuation of the school’s efforts to develop and deliver thoughtful packaging of vocational training into job-relevant, academically sound credentials.
How did our faculty and classes impact you?
There were several faculty who had a great impact on my education and career goals throughout both my communication undergraduate and graduate studies at Point Park University.
My graduate education classes opened my eyes to the true power of effective instructional design as a critical component for improving learning retention in adult learners. Both the education faculty and classes reinforced the concept that instructional models, which are not well thought through and designed, can result in missed learning opportunities, sometimes completely.
The various adult learning theories we explored in the curriculum and instruction graduate program have been invaluable for helping me develop more meaningful programs and courses.
What are your favorite Point Park memories?
Enrollment and graduation from both my Point Park University undergraduate and graduate programs! They represented the accomplishments of two very important life goals for me as a nontraditional adult student.
Final thoughts?
When I think back on my educational journey, I think fondly of my grandfather, Paul Rassau, who told me no matter what happens in life make sure you get your “sheepskin” (an old term referring to a degree) because that knowledge is something that no one can ever take away from you.
Throughout the years, he has helped me to understand the relationship between learning and success and the importance of owning your learning by taking responsibility to proactively seek out new life experiences and information.
Connect with Kimberly Rassau, Ed.D.
More About: M.A. in curriculum and instruction, graduate programs, Valley High School, School of Communication, graduate education, education, alumni, mass communication, success story