Welcome to the Dragon Family: Tiffany Bockelmann and Andrew Burklund

Meet Tiffany Bockelmann (pictured) and Andrew Burklund (not pictured). They are both assistant professors in the Department of Leadership & Learning. ​

Q: What drew you to MSUM?

Andrew: I finished both my master’s and doctorate at MSUM so I was thrilled to come back and take on a new role here.

Tiffany: I completed my master’s and doctorate here and I was the graduate assistant for the Department of Leadership and Learning. I was excited for this opportunity because it’s a wonderful place to be.

Q: What is your favorite part about MSUM?

Andrew: The community culture. I have a second family here. I met my lifelong friends and mentors here. My time here truly has been a formative experience.

Tiffany: I was drawn here by how progressive the Department of Leadership and Learning is. I also appreciate the kindness and professionalism around here.

Q: What energizes you at work?

Andrew: Working with the next generation of educational leaders. Our students are changing the definition of education leadership by looking at how the world is changing and redefining how to address problems .

Tiffany: Seeing my students problem-solving skills develop is energizing. I get to learn from them and grow just as much as they do.

Q: What is something you are learning right now and why is it important?

Andrew: I have teaching experience, but this is my first year in a full-time capacity at MSUM so I’m doing a lot of learning. The campus culture and online culture are different so I’m getting to know the campus culture to incorporate that online, with the goal of bridging the gap between the two.

Tiffany: I’m learning how to be more student centered in an online environment. I’m doing my best to figure out how to make sure everyone gets the most out of my courses, so it is applicable to each individual student.

Q: What energizes you outside of work?

Andrew: I like to work on projects around my house. I almost always have projects going on at home. In a way I’m energized by change, so I purposely create it.

Tiffany: My family energizes me. We all like to set time aside to play games. I always look forward to being able to take a break to have fun.

Q: What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend?

Andrew: I like hiking and spending time outside.

Tiffany: I love to spend time with my kids and relax.

Q: What is a fun fact about yourself or something a lot of people don’t know about you?

Andrew: I’m a huge sci-fi nerd. I have a star trek tattoo.

Tiffany: I can juggle and play the flute.