Heather Rickerl

Most recent degrees:

2017 - Master of Science (M.S.) - Higher Education (Leadership for Student Success) - Walden University – Dissertation/thesis topic: LGBTQ+ students and barriers to career development

2004 -Bachelor of Science (B.S.) - Life Science Education - Minnesota State University Moorhead

2000 - Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) - Zoology (Wildlife and Fisheries Biology) - North Dakota State University

Current licensures/certifications:

Minnesota Board of Teaching: grades 5-8 General Sciences teaching license, and Grades 9-12 Life Sciences teaching license

Academic background:

Heather Rickerl's Master's research focused on how LGBTQ+ identities play a role in career development. This included proposing a programmatic element that focused on the value of mentors throughout the college experience. When working with students in a career counseling capacity, Heather seeks to maximize the student's potential, as well as get the student to think outside the box. So many career fields and occupations are interdisciplinary these days, so it pays to look beyond the obvious!

Non-academic background:

Heather loves winter, especially snowshoeing and cross-country skiing! Summers bring days on the beach with her rescue dog Huck and favorite adventure human, long motorcycle rides, and time fly fishing along beloved Lake Superior's shores and streams. Heather is a fan of most sports, but football is her favorite. Heather is an avid reader who would die without public libraries. Heather also loves music - especially live concerts, travelling, especially far away, and doting on my niece, since she is especially new. Otherwise, Heather is content going outdoors to explore, taking in a local festival, or relaxing inside with a movie and popcorn. Heather volunteers as a reader for Point Foundation and PFLAG National scholarships, help EMS with local community events, and jump in when needed at Bayfield's Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua.

Notable awards:

2016 PFLAG Washburn Co-Person of the Year