Jodi Fudge is in the business of shaping futures. As an Information Management instructor at SFCC, she loves working with students and seeing them reach their educational goals.
“I have been very fortunate, because my job has allowed me to meet new people and help them see their potential,” says Fudge. “Many times when students come in they have low confidence in themselves and their work skills. As they successfully complete assignments and classes, their confidence goes up. They begin to realize they really can do this, and that their goals are attainable.”
An Oklahoma native, Fudge received an Associate of Science degree in Business Management from Connors State College, a community college about the size of SFCC. It was there she decided she wanted to teach in a community college one day.
She pursued her dream, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Education and a Master of Science degree in Education from Central Missouri State University. Since 1998 she has taught full time at SFCC, and both her sons have attended SFCC.
In addition to teaching, Fudge currently serves as the Business and Technology division chair. She also served as Office Management program coordinator and Phi Beta Lambda (PBL) advisor. Although she has received both Instructor of the Year and PBL Advisor of the Year awards, it’s not the honors that motivate her.
“The saying, ‘If you love your job, you’ll never have to work a day in your life’ is true,” says Fudge. “Of course, not all daily tasks are fun—but you’re helping shape someone’s future and the futures of their children as well. When students graduate and get good jobs, it makes everything worth it. They can support their families, and a burden has been lifted from their shoulders.
“I hope I’m able to encourage my students to push themselves—and to take advantage of every opportunity that comes their way.”
