Colleen Lelli, Ed.D., has a teaching philosophy that relies on one principle: “I believe that everyone can learn.”
As an educator, Lelli understands that various strategies must be employed to reach every student in the classroom. “A kind, understanding teacher will be able to see each student as an individual and be able to teach to each student’s needs,” Lelli says.
During her years as an undergraduate at Cabrini College, Lelli loved the sense of community, beautiful campus, and lasting friendships she formed with her peers. These factors inspired her to return to Cabrini as a faculty member in 2003.
“As an alum, Cabrini has always been dear to my heart. I believe in the mission of the college, service learning, and the Common Good,” says Lelli.
Lelli says Cabrini’s curriculum incorporates linking theory to practice. This is a skill which Lelli says has served her well in her field.
“As I teach, I emphasize the importance of linking theory to practice and I explain to my students the importance of lifelong learning,” Lelli says.
Lelli supervises student teachers and field experience students. Her students learn the importance of understanding diversity in the school systems, a belief upheld by the Cabrini mission.
“Cabrini’s mission and our education system fit nicely together and the mission helps us in the education division to create superb teachers,” says Lelli.
Lelli earned a bachelor's degree from Cabrini College, a master’s degree from Arcadia University, and recently earned a doctorate degree from Widener University.
Her research interests are content-area reading, phonics, study skills, and bibliotherapy. She presented a paper, An Innovative Model of Special Education Teacher Training: A Collaboration between Cabrini College and Neighboring School Districts, at the Pennsylvania Council for Exceptional Children Conference in 2006.
Lelli lives in Limerick, Pa.
Contact information:
Colleen Lelli, Ed.D.
Assistant Professor, Education
Grace Hall, Room 266
610-902 8466
cl724@cabrini.edu