The School of Social Work launches a new Daily Bulletin feature this week - Staff Profiles!
Every other week during the semester we will showcase one staff member. This week we get to know Colin Fagan, an Instructional Technology Specialist. (Colin is here on the right with his wife Kari and their daughter Leah)
How would you describe yourself? I would describe myself as a creative thinker who enjoys working with people and solving problems. Staying organized at work and home are very important to me. At the end of the day, I will always try and listen to everyone. Just finishing up my Master's degree in the fall. I look forward to using my knowledge to better help the School achieve its mission.
When did you join the SSW and what is your day-to-day role? Joined full time after finishing up my undergrad at Frostburg State University. My day-to-day role includes handling blackboard, Tk20, assessment data collection, and more. Working with the other members of the IDEA team we support Blackboard, instructional design, and e-learning by meeting with faculty throughout the year.
What skills are needed for your role? Skills that are needed for the role include being an effective communicator and keeping up with new trends in technology. This allows me to provide the best possible support to faculty, students, and staff.
What's the most rewarding and challenging part of your work? The most challenging is making sure I keep up with everything that technology has to offer so that I am in the best position to help out faculty. The most rewarding part is knowing that I am helping the School on its mission to better shape society and help out people all over the world. Putting the faculty in a better E-learning environment will hopefully create better social workers in the future.
What would you be doing if you hadn't followed this career path? I am not sure but something related to technology for sure!
How do you relax when you're not at work?
I enjoy playing Basketball, lacrosse, and golf. I currently run a post-college lacrosse team called the Maryland Shamrocks. We play in tournaments all over the east coast. A fun fact is our logo is a shamrock with the Maryland logo.
What's playing in your car right now? If my 16th-month-old Leah is in the car, there is a good chance the Trolls soundtrack is playing!
What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13?
Just to be yourself and do not worry about what others think or try hard to be friends with people. In the end, true friends will be there no matter what.
You're happiest when....
When I am with family and watching my little girl grow up!
Where can people find you on social media if they want to follow you?
LinkedIn I can be found at Colin Fagan. The IDEA Team Twitter account is @UMBSSWIDEA