Katy Jaekel

Katy Jaekel, Ph.D., is an academic faculty member in the Department of Counseling and Higher Education at Northern Illinois University's College of Education. She joined NIU in fall 2015 and teaches courses on diversity, critical multiculturalism, and pedagogy. Her role focuses on higher education, with an emphasis on inclusive teaching practices and student support.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Education, Iowa State University, specialization in critical multiculturalism
• M.A. in English, emphasis on literature
• B.A. in English, emphasis on literature

Her research interests include first-year student experience, LGBTQ student experiences in the classroom, and the preparation and development of novice postsecondary educators. She is particularly committed to using critical pedagogy to support the learning of non-dominant student populations. Her work emphasizes equity, power, privilege, and systemic barriers in educational settings.

Jaekel has been recognized as an ACUE Distinguished Teaching Scholar, highlighting her excellence in teaching and student engagement. She has contributed to curriculum design, facilitator training, and program assessment through initiatives such as Iowa State University's Dialogues on Diversity program.

Scientific Awards:

• ACUE Distinguished Teaching Scholar

She has advised and mentored novice college educators, particularly in first-year writing and diversity education. Though no formal grants are mentioned, her administrative and training roles suggest leadership in educational development and faculty support programs. She previously served as assistant director for First-Year Writing at Iowa State University and taught in Women’s and Gender Studies, offering courses in Queer Studies and LGBTQ-themed topics.

Jaekel coordinated the multi-section undergraduate course Dialogues on Diversity for three years, overseeing curriculum, facilitator training, and assessment. Her work demonstrates a strong commitment to inclusive pedagogy and institutional change in higher education.