Issue link: http://ncumarketing.uberflip.com/i/1104021
19 Dr. Mary Jill Blackwell received her Bachelor of Arts, Master of Arts, and then her PhD in Experimental Psychology with a specialization in developmental psychology, all from DePaul University. Dr. Blackwell has held a variety of roles: • Participating in the development of diagnostic manuals, guides and policy statements • Mentoring students in developing research projects for their dissertations • Authoring multiple audio CDs and a book on dissertation strategy • Teaching graduate psychology classes for more than 15 years Dr. Blackwell says that being at NCU as a dissertation chair and professor are very rewarding. "I really enjoy my daily work with students to develop quality research plans, and assisting with all phases of study implementation and write-up. Then there are the bigger victories of hosting a student's dissertation defense and being with my students at their graduations. Those are really life-changing moments for both of us, and I am so grateful to accompany students on their dissertation journeys." Dr. Blackwell delights in keeping in contact with former students to help them publish their dissertation research, but mostly just to stay in touch. "For me, the dissertation process should be characterized by mentoring with kindness, as well as constructive feedback, so doctoral students can cultivate confidence and pride about their accomplishments in addition to quality research," she says. What a gift for me to be able to support graduate students as they become independent scholars. I am thrilled to be at NCU!" MEET A DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHOLOGY PROFESSOR MARY JILL BLACKWELL, PhD 19