Sky’s the Limit for 2009 Woman of the Year

College of Education

Some say “the sky’s the limit,” while others live that philosophy. Southeast 2009 Woman of the Year, Emily Brown of O’Fallon, Mo., became involved at Southeast Missouri State University as soon as she stepped foot on campus. As a freshman, she was elected as a presidential ambassador, inducted into Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society, participated in Friday Night Leadership, selected as an emerging leaders facilitator and served on Towers North Hall Council while making the Dean’s List.

Currently a senior, Brown holds many leadership positions at Southeast. She is the president of the Student Missouri State Teachers Association, as well as the Council for Exceptional Children and belongs to Kappa Delta Pi and Phi Kappa Phi. Brown serves as a Student Government senator for the College of Education, presidential ambassador, orientation leader and historian on the state level of the Student Missouri State Teachers Association and is the recipient of five endowed scholarships, in addition to her President’s Scholarship.

Brown chose Southeast because of the outstanding education program. As an exceptional child education major, Brown began her studies with classroom training and observation during her freshman year and is now student teaching, which she will complete in the spring. Brown plans to pursue a master’s degree in administration after she begins teaching.

“The College of Education provided me with knowledgeable and dedicated faculty, all of whom have worked in the field of education. Our faculty is truly inspiring and has made a tremendous impact on me.”

After class, club meetings and working on-campus in the Office of the President, Brown spends her time at University events. You can catch her cheering at a football game, watching a production at the River Campus, and supporting students at leadership programs. Her favorite on-campus event is the Late Night Breakfast, a unique tradition held during finals week that gives students a chance to enjoy a delicious breakfast while relaxing and hanging out with friends.

Brown encourages others to take advantage of the history and beauty of Cape Girardeau and believes it is important “to take time to stop and smell the roses.” She likes spending the afternoon downtown visiting shops, dining at local restaurants, and walking along the Mississippi riverfront.

The best advice Brown offers students is to take advantage of everything the University offers. “Step outside your box. Get involved. Make a difference. Don’t just attend Southeast, be part of it!”