Helen Hoeffer
Program Coordinator
120 Jones Learning Center
Tel. (479) 979-1414
hhoeffer@ozarks.edu
B.S., University of the Ozarks
M.S., University of Central Arkansas
Licensed Psychological Examiner
Certified School Psychologist
Helen's experience as a tutor in the learning center while a student at Ozarks left a lasting impression. "I quickly realized that the students at JLC were really neat people," says Helen. As part of her graduate school work, she was offered a one semester practicum in the JLC, and a year later was offered a job as a program coordinator.
That was 20 years ago, and Helen still loves working at JLC. She says the students who have succeeded haven't always been those with the highest test scores but rather, those with the greatest capability and determination. In her interviews with students, Helen looks for what she calls "that inner spark." "Everyone has that spark, it just takes some students longer to find it in themselves," Helen says. "If we can nurture them until they do find it, it's like a fireworks display -- delightful, satisfying and rewarding!"
"Students in the learning center have an opportunity to assume leadership roles that they would never have at a large university," Helen adds. "There is also the personal nurturing by faculty and staff that goes a long way toward helping our students grow into capable adults."
During her free time, Helen is at home in the country enjoying the company of deer, wild turkey, coyotes, foxes and the occasional panther or beaver. She and her husband raised their three daughters on her family's old home place, and she loves riding four-wheelers, traveling, gardening, canning, landscaping, sewing, reading, collecting angels and putting together puzzles.
