We asked faculty from Crete, Lincoln and Omaha to recommend graduating seniors in spring '22 who stood out in their classes. These students — our Featured Tigers — are just a few of the many talented and driven leaders from Doane's undergraduate and graduate programs. View all Featured Tigers here.
Let’s get started: tell us your name, your hometown and your degree program.
Courtney Cronk, she/her.
From Royal, Iowa, where she attended Clay Central / Everly High School
Earned her early childhood education degree with a special education endorsement at Iowa State University
Earned a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction in 2019 and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership in 2022 from Doane University
First off — congratulations! How do you feel as you head into the next phase of your life?
I feel inspired and more dedicated than ever as I enter this new phase in my career. I, along with so many others, have had to pivot numerous times over the last two years and without a doubt in my mind I am confident my purpose is to be a change agent for education.
What’s your next step after graduation?
Next year, I will serve as the Administrator of Rue Elementary for the Council Bluffs Community School District. I am excited for this new adventure and opportunity to continue to grow as a leader.
How has attending Doane prepared you for your next steps?
Doane has prepared me to take on my next role as a reflective and servant leader. Doane taught me numerous systems for building strong and continuously developing teams while constantly reflecting on ways to grow individually.
What do you consider the best part of your Doane experience?
Doane is a caring community that, in my experience, always does what is best for students. The educators at Doane University go far beyond the classroom walls to ensure students have the support and resources needed to be successful.
What is something you’re proud of achieving or accomplishing while at Doane?
I am incredibly proud for not only devoting myself to become a better educator but also to become a better leader. I am determined to continue to better myself and Doane has provided me with many systems to do just that.
Who was a major influence for you during your education here, and how have they helped you?
Cadre 43 had a major influence on my time at Doane. Together as a cadre, we learned how to grow and connect virtually. Then we had to learn how to be there for one another as we switched from virtual to in-person learning. However, regardless of our learning environment, the cadre 43 members were committed to one another in both our professional and personal lives. We were a team.
What will you miss the most about being a Doane student?
I have earned two masters’ degrees from Doane University and the thing I will miss most about being a Doane student is the amount of love and respect that comes from everyone associated with Doane. Doane is truly a caring university that wants to build effective teachers and leaders.
What advice would you give to incoming students?
Don't hold back! Doane is ready to help you accomplish anything and everything you are willing to work for.
Finishing a degree is tough to begin with, but especially so in recent years — what has helped you overcome the challenges of the past three semesters?
Connecting with people who inspire me and lead by example. Relationships are a powerful tool!
Finally — what are you most excited about for your future?
I am excited to continue on my journey as a dedicated and determined servant leader. To serve staff and students for years to come is a role I do not take lightly and I am honored to serve my community.
