Kaitlyn Ricks, an adjunct instructor in the English department, has been honored as Faculty of Distinction for February 2024 at College of Western Idaho (CWI). Throughout her five years with CWI, Ricks' dedication to her students and passion for teaching have made a significant impact on the college community.
Ricks teaches English 102 and Writing and Rhetoric II, in a remote format, along with various classes for the Adult Education department. Her teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that a meaningful life involves service to others. “Ultimately, my goal isn't whether a student gets an A in my class but whether they walked out of my class feeling like they were respected, learned skills that translate beyond my grade book, and are better prepared to enter the world,” Ricks said. She finds true happiness in those moments when students figure things out, put it all together, and feel proud of themselves.
Ricks' educational background is impressive, with two literature degrees: a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, with a minor in Technical and Professional Writing, and a Master of Arts in Transnational and Multicultural Literatures. Additionally, she holds certifications in Teaching English in the Two-Year College and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). Ricks' professional journey in education has taken her around the world, from South Korea to China, and from Washington to Idaho.
Ricks believes CWI offers students a personal connection with their instructors and professors, putting the humanity back into education. “Our jobs are about the people we serve, and by showing that example of service, we prepare our students to be part of the larger community of Idaho and the rest of the country by extension,” Ricks said. She values the variety of programs at CWI, which cater to the local economy's needs and provide students with diverse opportunities — from earning a GED to obtaining an associate degree.
Reflecting on her teaching experiences, Kaitlyn finds the most memorable students to be those who worked the hardest, struggled the most, and engaged with her beyond academia. Those students who sought help and advice consistently most often achieved significant success and left a lasting impression on her. “The students who have had the most success are the ones who fought for what they wanted,” Ricks said.
Ricks appreciates how CWI empowers students to see a future where their personal goals are achievable in a way that is empowering and uniquely meaningful to them. She has witnessed students transform from feeling hopeless and frustrated to becoming ecstatic about their futures and proud of their achievements. “CWI gives me a place to help students not only see how success is cultivated but to recognize it in others and provide that same helping hand to others in the community,” Ricks said.
Born and raised in Washington, Kaitlyn is a native of the Pacific Northwest with family roots in the South. She is the proud “mother” of two large long-haired cats, adopted from a local shelter in Boise. In her spare time, Kaitlyn enjoys playing video games and tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons and Dragons and Call of Cthulhu.
Ricks’ recognition as Faculty of Distinction for February 2024 highlights her unwavering dedication to her students and the CWI community. Her passion for teaching and commitment to student success make her an invaluable asset to the College. Through her service and dedication, Kaitlyn continues to inspire and empower her students, preparing them for successful futures.
