Faculty Spotlight: Jenna Berry

The Teacher Education Department is excited to welcome Dr. Jenna Berry, who joined the department in July 2025. With a strong background in English, literacy, and elementary education, Jenna brings both breadth and depth to her new role of Assistant Professor in Teacher Education. She originally began her journey as an English major, drawn to reading and writing, but soon discovered that her true passion was helping students grow. “It became more about the students than the subject,” she explained, a philosophy that continues to shape her teaching today.

Jenna’s career path has been anything but linear—she’s earned multiple degrees (three Master degrees!), explored different areas of education, and built a wealth of expertise along the way. From literacy instruction to educational technology and even educational leadership, Jenna has a true commitment to lifelong learning. What ties it all together is her mission: to ensure that teachers entering the classroom are fully prepared, especially in teaching reading. She believes that research-backed strategies should guide new educators from day one, so novice teachers do not have to “figure it out as they go.”

Outside of the classroom, Jenna is an avid reader and enthusiastic traveler. She’s visited nearly 20 countries, often joining her sister abroad in places like Russia, Turkmenistan, and Albania (see image above from Jenna’s glacier walk in Iceland). Closer to home, she fondly recalls her small-town roots in Rexburg, Idaho, complete with snowy winters, potato harvest breaks, and even the occasional moose wandering through the yard. She also jokes that students never forget the fact that she once worked at her family’s Dairy Queen, serving up plenty of ice cream. With her warmth, expertise, and student-centered approach, Jenna is already making an impact in Teacher Education, and we’re delighted to have her on the team. Welcome Jenna!