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ACE Faculty

NAME: Gail West

COLLEGE: Cabrillo College

TITLE: Human Services Instructor

DEPARTMENT: Human Services

EMAIL: gailwest1@sbcglobal.net

WEBSITE: http://babyface.cabrillo.edu/salsa/listing.jsp?staffId=975

INVOLVED WITH ACE SINCE: Spring, 2010

ACE COURSES TAUGHT/TEACHING:
Foundation Course
Team Self-Management 1

REASON FOR BECOMING INVOLVED WITH ACE:
Several years ago, I began to notice that each semester there were several students in each of the classes that I taught that were “shining stars”.   They were focused, highly motivated and supportive of their classmates.  They helped create the kind of learning community that I have always dreamed about as a teacher.  When I learned more about each of these students, the thing they each had in common was their participation in the ACE program.  My participation in the ACE program’s Faculty Experiential Learning Institute further validated my beliefs about the ACE program’s ability to help students become empowered learners and leaders.  I feel honored to be part of the ACE community of teachers and students.

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND:
I have a Master’s degree in Community Psychology and am a Licensed Marriage and Family Counselor.  I have taught in the Community College System, since 1997 and at Cabrillo College since 2003.  Prior to my involvement as a Community College Instructor, I worked as a therapist in residential programs for children and teenagers with mental health needs and directed a program for Foster Families.  I am currently teaching in the Human Services Department and the ACE’s program at Cabrillo College.  In addition I also provide counseling for adults, couples, children and families in my private practice in Morgan Hill and conduct workshops through-out the state for Family Service Workers.