Alumna enhances students' career readiness at CU-Lock Haven's 'Success in 60!' event

Terri (Wise) Koehler, a 1985 graduate of Lock Haven University, now Commonwealth University-Lock Haven, with a degree in elementary/early childhood education, is making a lasting impact through her dedicated alumni volunteerism.

An elementary administrator at Pottsgrove School District, Koehler recently participated in CU-Lock Haven's "Success in 60" speed networking event, offering career guidance and professional advice to more than two dozen students in attendance.

As a member of the Lock Haven Alumni Association board of directors, and an active participant in an array of alumni activities and events, Koehler embraces the opportunity to connect with students and fellow alumni alike.

"Getting to know other alumni and interacting with the current students has been incredibly rewarding," Koehler said. "The students are personable, well-spoken, and genuinely interested in learning from the experiences and advice we have to offer."

For Koehler, volunteering is not just about giving back to the university she loves, it's about fostering relationships and creating meaningful connections that benefit both students and alumni. She emphasized that it doesn't take a lot of time or preparation to have a positive impact on students' professional aspirations, simply through sharing personal experiences that can help students anticipate obstacles and be better prepared for career success upon graduating.

"Hearing about students' journeys, and their academic and professional goals helps us better support the university and address any concerns that need attention," Koehler said. "You never know when a simple conversation can lead to a positive connection."

Koehler credits her time as a Lock Haven student with laying the foundation for her successful career and leadership growth, asserting that the university's small, family-oriented community fostered countless positive relationships with professors, staff and peers who truly cared for and invested in her success.

"Those positive relationships not only helped me build confidence, but ultimately laid the foundation for the development of my leadership skills that have served me well throughout my career," Koehler said.

"Volunteering with CU-Lock Haven is fun, meaningful and incredibly rewarding," she said. "Whether you're engaging in a career-focused event or simply connecting with students, your time and expertise can inspire the next generation of students while reigniting your own Haven pride."

Along with Koehler's volunteer leadership with the Alumni Association's board of directors over the last six years, she also completed a volunteer term on the board of directors of the Lock Haven University Foundation (LHUF) from 2016-18. Her husband, Joe Koehler '84, is the governance chair in his third year of service with the LHUF board of directors He previously dedicated eight years of volunteerism with the Alumni Association, including a two-year term as president. In 2018, Terri and Joe received the Lock Haven University Wagner Award in recognition of their decades of service and philanthropic support of Lock Haven students.