Dr. Janet Andrews is a Biology instructor at Columbia College who teaches classes in the Online Program.
Andrews has been a member of the CC faculty for more than 15 years. She is highly regarded as an engaging, knowledgeable instructor, and she received the 2023 Deans’ Award for Excellence in Online Teaching.
Get to know Andrews in a Q&A with CC Connected below!
What are the highlights of your professional career outside of Columbia College?
I was a research scientist for 20 years and am co-inventor on two U.S. patents.
Could you tell us more about being a research scientist and what the patents are for?
I worked in academia as a scientist in both virology and immunology labs and was coauthor on numerous journal articles. I transitioned from academia to industry where I was heavily involved in diagnostic assay development, including personally developing an assay that allowed for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) approval of the company’s first diagnostic point of care test. I was coauthor on two U.S. patents that involved diagnostic assays for companion animals. I then segued into human diagnostic assay development wherein I was the senior scientist for research and development.
How does your career experience influence the way you teach your students?
I have always had a passion for science, so sharing that with my students came easily. There is some anxiety surrounding science for non-majors, and I strive to make them understand that biology is intimately woven into their lives.
How did you first come to start teaching at Columbia College?
Honestly, I don’t remember. I am just so thankful that I have been with such a remarkable institution for so many years.
What do you take the most pride in with your teaching at Columbia College, and why is teaching important to you?
I love that my students recognize that I am passionate about teaching and that I care deeply for them as people. I cannot imagine not teaching. I love seeing students succeed, and I love sharing my passion for science.
Columbia College’s Adjunct Faculty Spotlight series celebrates our talented adjunct faculty members around the country who teach in the Online Program or at one of the college’s nationwide locations. If you would like to recommend an adjunct faculty member for a future spotlight, email Strategic Communications at pr@ccis.edu.
