Jane Schreck, associate professor of English, is the recipient of the 2008 Jack Fellowship. She is pursuing a doctor of philosophy in teaching and learning with a higher education focus from the University of North Dakota through the BSC campus.

Schreck, who has been teaching at BSC since 2000, holds bachelor’s degrees and a master of arts degree from UND.

Pursuing another degree is a big commitment of time and money, she said, but also admits that she is happy to be in the program.

“I knew I wanted more education. Because UND’s program is delivered to Bismarck, I decided to try one class and then see what I thought,” she said. “It has made me a better teacher and a much more compassionate teacher, because I know what it’s like to be a student again.”

“The existence of the fellowship gave me the confidence to start the program,” Schreck said. “I knew it wasn’t a sure thing, but I thought I had a shot at it.”

In fact, she said this year was the third time she applied for the fellowship. “My advice to others is don’t give up.”

She said she is honored and grateful for this opportunity, and a bonus was the congratulations she received from colleagues and friends after she was announced as this year’s recipient.

A BSC Foundation committee selected Schreck for the fellowship, which provides $25,000 to partially underwrite the salary and/or expenses of full-time employees to further their education, conduct research, or pursue other personal growth opportunities. Tom Jack and his late wife, Peg, endowed the fellowship in 1999. The intent is for the educational experience to ultimately benefit BSC and its students.