Learn more about Susan Coleman, a graduating student who is on her way to becoming a triple-duck, through our Graduate Spotlight series

"Reach out to faculty for advice and support. They want to help you succeed, and those connections could last a lifetime!"—Susan Coleman

Susan Koller-Coleman who is on her way to being a triple-duck, with a BS in Psychology, an MS in Special Education, and soon to be MEd in Prevention Science. 

Susan taught special education in California and Beaverton for 14 years, before returning to Eugene to take a position as a Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) in Springfield Public Schools. The SPED program provided her with the technical skills and pedagogical knowledge to be successful in the classroom from day one, and later take on a leadership role to support others in the profession. She decided to return to the COE but this time in the Prevention Science program where she has learned to support the adoption and implementation of evidence-based practices for students.

Following graduation, Susan plans continue to support student outcomes in Springfield, while also exploring options to further her education and look at opportunities within a research-related position.

It was mentioned that you are on your way to being a triple duck! How has the SPED and Prevention Science program helped prepare you for your career?

After earning my master’s in special education, I taught special education in California and Beaverton, Oregon, for 14 years before moving back to Eugene in 2008 to take a position as a Teacher on Special Assignment in Springfield Public Schools. 

The special education program at UO provided me with the technical skills and pedagogical knowledge to be successful in the classroom from day one, and prepared me to eventually take a leadership role to support others in the profession. 

The Prevention Science program has provided me with further skills and knowledge to support the adoption and implementation of evidence-based practices for students. It has also prepared me to explore new opportunities connected to research and practice outside of my current position.

What is your favorite part of your job as a Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) for the Springfield School District?

My favorite part of my job as a Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) is designing and implementing systems and programming that support teachers in doing their very best for students every day.

What are your plans following graduation?

I am exploring options to further my education and to look for additional opportunities to work in a research-related position. However, I am happy to continue supporting efforts to improve student outcomes in Springfield for the near future! 

What advice would you give incoming/current students? 

I would tell incoming and current students to reach out to faculty for advice and support. They want to help you succeed, and those connections could last a lifetime! 

Where is a place on campus you would come back to specifically visit? 

Many places are special to me at UO, but my favorite place is the courtyard in front of Knight Library.