Meet KayDee Perry, assistant professor of health and human performance. Don’t be fooled by the name, singing isn’t her specialty, but teaching and mentoring students certainly is.
For the entire campus community, Professor Perry goes beyond her teaching duties to serve as a positive and uplifting influence every day. She also attends each New Student Orientation, welcoming students while using her infectious personality to break through their nerves and help new Comets enjoy their time on campus. Regardless of major, office or department, Professor Perry goes out of her way to spread joy on campus, and while she may not be a world-wide celebrity, she certainly is an OC icon.
Why do you love working at OC?
There are so many things I love about OC. First, it’s all about the students. I get to build meaningful relationships with students as they prepare and transition into their career. We get to celebrate successes and work through the struggles together. Yet, I have to admit that my colleagues are top notch, too! We learn from one another, laugh with one another, and genuinely care about each other. I have this extended family that makes this place a perfect fit for me.
Why is attending OC the “Best. Decision. Ever.” a student can make?
This question is almost impossible to answer. You have to experience our people and our culture. We foster student growth, and not just academically. We seek to create dynamic individuals and encourage them to become the best version of themselves.
What are some things you look forward to in your role?
I love watching students find their passion. That moment in the learning process (in or out of the classroom) where you watch the student rise to the challenge and not just embrace and endure, but rise and conquer. To see them find a motivation that is giving beyond themselves and contributing to our community.
What is the number one piece of advice you share with students?
Be you. You are enough. Embrace the adventure. Learn. Grow. Give.
More about Professor Perry:
- Professor Perry has served at OC for six years.
- She is an avid sewer, and has even tackled projects as large as duck blinds for her husband.
- Christmas is her favorite holiday, and she even has a giant snow village that takes over her entire dining room.
Learn more about the opportunities in OC’s Health and Human Performance Department from exercise science to sports psychology, fitness management, coaching and more by contacting the Office of Admissions at 800.456.7189 or admissions@uolivet.edu.