Each year, Benet has the honor of welcoming new members of faculty and staff. One new member of the Benet family this year is Mrs. Crowe, who teaches French. Just last summer, she moved to Illinois from Iowa, a major life change that included a new job at Benet! A graduate of Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, she majored in French and English.

When she was younger, Mrs. Crowe did not know what she wanted to do professionally. As she went through high school and college, she slowly realized that sharing what she loves with the younger generation is her calling. She credits her senior year English teacher with helping to nudge her in the direction of her current occupation. Watching students learn and progress over the years has brought her great joy. Mrs. Crowe is grateful that she can teach all levels of French, which will allow her to build strong relationships with her students and to watch them grow not only academically, but also as people.

There was no sudden moment when she realized she wanted to teach French specifically. In junior high, her world language options were French and Spanish. A long-held curiosity led her to the language she is fluent in now. After choosing French, she gradually fell in love with the language. Once she began teaching, French was the first class she taught. Aside from one English class for one year, she never taught any other classes.

Outside of class, she enjoys calming activities such as reading, taking walks,  and spending time with her family and friends. She would like to remind Benet students not to be afraid to try new things. They will encounter difficult scenarios, but in the end, they can find success. She said, “Thank you for welcoming me to Benet. Feel free to stop by and say hi even if you don’t have me for class!”