Ye Jee Tu, left, and Dawn Correll, right.
The Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning (CITL), in partnership with Academic Affairs, recently recognized two adjunct faculty members for their exceptional contributions to student success.
While their efforts may not always be visible on paper, their impact is felt in the classroom and beyond. Instructional Design Specialist Nic Manogue collected and shared reflections from colleagues to spotlight these remarkable educators: Ye Jee Tu and Dawn Correll.
Ye Jee Tu
Ye Jee Tu, an adjunct instructor in the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program, teaches Neuromuscular Rehabilitation.
“Ye Jee excels at inspiring and fostering student engagement through her dedication and multifaceted approach to instruction,” one colleague shared. “She ensures her course expectations are crystal clear and maintains open communication with students—even when off-campus and balancing a full-time clinical job.”
Students frequently praise her timely, thoughtful feedback and effective teaching strategies. It’s no surprise her course evaluations reflect her commitment.
Tu’s path to teaching was unexpected.
“I honestly had no intention of teaching in the beginning,” she said.
Her journey started after a chance encounter with PTA faculty member Enid Halewyn at an advisory board meeting. When a teaching position opened up, Ye Jee reached out on a whim. Encouraged to share her passion for neuromuscular rehab, she applied—and two years later, she continues to make a lasting impact.
Tu completed her undergraduate studies at Michigan State University and Grand Valley State University, where she also earned her doctorate in Physical Therapy. She has worked as a physical therapist in Janesville for 15 years. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband, daughter, and energetic mini bernedoodle. She also volunteers for Rock Steady Boxing, a program for individuals with Parkinson’s disease, and finds joy in reading, boxing, and sipping overly sweet coffee.
Dawn Correll
Nursing adjunct instructor Dawn Correll is celebrated for her ability to build strong, meaningful connections with students while fostering a welcoming, inclusive environment.
“Dawn goes above and beyond to support students academically,” said a colleague. “She continuously motivates students to grow both professionally and personally and is always responsive—offering Zoom meetings, email support, and phone calls.”
Dawn teaches various clinical courses and has also taught Nursing Pharmacology. Her nursing journey also began unexpectedly, sparked by experiences as a doula for two friends. Though she originally envisioned a future in labor and delivery, her path led her to acute care, working with cardiac and medical/surgical patients. Her love for mentoring new nurses eventually drew her to pre-licensure nursing education.
A proud Blackhawk alumna, Dawn earned her nursing degree in her 30s before completing her Bachelor of Science in Nursing through Viterbo University and her Master’s through Benedictine University. She has been teaching at Blackhawk for more than five years.
Outside the classroom, Dawn and her husband of 24 years stay busy with their large blended family of six adult children and six grandchildren. Active in their church, they serve as marriage mentors and enjoy camping, hiking, kayaking and quilting, which Dawn calls a creative passion.