Holly Hermstedt

Q: What is your favorite thing about working at Delaware Tech?

"There are so many things I love about Delaware Tech, but this question is easy! Delaware Tech is a place where dreams come true. No matter what your dream is or what your current situation is, there is a place for you at Delaware Tech, and there is a path for you to achieve your dream. There are no free passes, but there is always a helping hand. I am continuously amazed at the multitude of ways in which the College community comes together to support each other, at all levels and in all ways."

Q: Why was it important for you to work at Delaware Tech?

"I began working at Delaware Tech as an adjunct instructor and was amazed at the connections I made with students. My class was so diverse in so many ways but, after only a few weeks into the semester, we had become a tight-knit group. I was amazed and inspired by the passion and determination of my students, by the connections and partnerships within the community, and by the talent and dedication of DTCC employees. "

Q: Describe your first day at Delaware Tech. What was that experience like?

"As excited as I was, I was still nervous. But that faded away as I was welcomed by my new colleagues. I was given a tour of the campus and treated to a warm welcome from everyone I encountered."

Q: What changes have you seen in yourself since you started working here?

"I have learned SO much, but by far I've grown the most in terms of working in a virtual environment. Accelerated by the pandemic, leveraging technology for learning has been an ongoing and evolving focus for me. I've learned so much about online course design, LMS features, and tech tools, and am even stepping into the world of virtual reality for education! It's amazing, and I am grateful to the College, particularly CCIT, for making this possible."

Q: What hobbies or interests do you have outside of the College?

"I'm a huge animal lover! I love to be outdoors and always have some sort of gardening project going. I also enjoy various "crafty" adventures; I'm not picky and enjoy delving into all sorts of projects that catch my attention, like refinishing furniture or making stained glass. And, there's nothing like a good story! I always have a few books on my docket and enjoy a well-made movie/show."

Q: Do you have a favorite memory from your time at Delaware Tech thus far?

"My favorite memories so far include all the students who have reached a goal they established, including moments like graduation and getting a job in the field. I also fondly remember our campus director taking time out of her busy day to sit on the steps with a group of students and talk with them. I had only been at the College a couple of months and seeing that made me realize that the mission – students are at the center of everything we do – was undoubtedly true. Since that time, I see daily examples everywhere I look of this mission in action."

Q: What's something people may not know about you?

"I place great value on a conscious lifestyle full of kindness and regard for the environment. I try to live by the Native American edict: Tread lightly upon the earth."

Q: Do you have any future goals?

"I'm excited for the launch of the Bachelor of Science in Education program and want to help get that program fully established! I hope to contribute to the College as my career continues."