Edustaff congratulates Elaine Stewart for being named the Higher Education Employee of the Month for May.
Elaine teaches math at Jackson College, where she has been an adjunct professor since 2008.
She was nominated by two people at Jackson College – Student Resource Coordinator Ariel Maturine, and Math Professor Kristi Laird. They said Elaine shows outstanding dedication and support to students, and consistently goes the extra mile to ensure their understanding and success.
“Elaine Stewart is more than an instructor—she is a mentor, a motivator, and a life-changer,” said Ariel, who is a former student of Elaine’s in addition to being a Jackson College employee. “From the very beginning, Elaine believed in me—even when I didn’t yet believe in myself. Elaine's leadership created a classroom environment where collaboration, kindness, and perseverance were the norm. Because of her, I made lifelong friends and discovered a passion for helping others—something that continues to guide me in my personal and professional life today.”
Kristi, the Math Department chair at Jackson College, said Elaine helps students both at the college and via online meetings when students at a distance need help. “Her positivity is contagious; her students and colleagues know they can count on her to encourage every student to do their very best,” she said.
Elaine said her favorite part of teaching math is seeing the “lightbulb moment” when students suddenly understand the material.
“That’s the fun part. I remember when that happened to me – I remember that feeling, and that’s why I enjoy it so much when I’m teaching. That’s just what you hope for,” she said.
When she’s not working, Elaine enjoys outdoor activities like biking, skiing with her adult children, and caring for the family’s horses.
Thank you, Elaine, for making such a difference in the lives of students at Jackson College
