THOMA STAFF

The Thoma staff recently caught up with Dr. Barbara Klein in the hopes of learning more about one of STAC’s primary Speech & Communications professors.  Dr. Klein offers communications classes across all levels to students in varying majors, and she is also the Dean of Institutional Assessment at STAC. To find out more about Dr. Klein, read the interview below and visit her Faculty Page on STAC’s website.

Thoma Staff: When did you start working at STAC, and what is the best part about your job?

Dr. Klein: I’ve been working at the College for many years, but I assumed the responsibility of being the Dean of Institutional Assessment in 2006. I have the good fortune of working not only with students but with administrators and service providers. It’s a very rewarding job!

Thoma: What were your favorite and least favorite classes in college? 

Dr. K: As an undergraduate, my favorite class was acting (I was a theatre major!). My least favorite class was statistics – probably because I didn’t devote enough time and energy into learning more about that particular area of study.

Thoma: What is your favorite college memory? 

Dr. K: My favorite memories as an undergraduate were all related to theatre performance.

Thoma: What was your first job? 

Dr. K: My first job after graduation was at an Insurance company. My heart and mind weren’t into it, and I was – very appropriately! – fired from that job.

Thoma: What app do you find yourself using most?

Dr. K: The app I use most on my iPad is the one for Google Mail. After that, it’s Amazon’s books for Kindle readers.

Thoma: Say you just sold your tech start-up for 10 million dollars! What’s the first thing you do with the money? 

Dr. K: I’d give 10% to charities that help the needy and I’d give another 5% to local no-kill animal shelters.

Thoma: Out of all the classes you teach, which would you say is your favorite?   

Dr. K: I enjoy teaching CA101 Speech Communication because I get to work with students majoring in a variety of programs on campus. And as a result, I learn a lot from their presentations!

Thoma: If someone made a movie about your life, which actress would you pick to play you? 

Dr. K: Frances McDormand (Fargo)

Thoma: Are there any hobbies that people don’t know you have? 

Dr. K: I play golf (poorly!).

Thoma: Any current movie, TV, or music obsessions you want to mention? 

Dr. K: I enjoy watching Masterpiece Mystery on PBS and CNN.

Thoma: If you were a candy, what candy would you be? 

Dr. K: Butterfinger

Thoma: What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?  

Dr. K: Be yourself.