May Professor Spotlight: Sally McGhee

Daytona State College employees are some of the best educators in the

state. Professor Sally McGhee is an English teacher here at the

college. McGhee grew up in an Air Force family, so she moved around a

lot growing up. Born in Germany, eventually moving around the eastern

coast of the United States, McGhee resides in DeLand, Florida. 

McGhee obtained her B.A. in literature from Flagler College and her

M.A from Stetson. Recently receiving her tenure, McGhee has been

teaching at the college for thirteen years.

Prior to teaching, McGhee worked as a practical nurse. McGhee

expressed that she always had a passion for the arts, reading, and

theater. She wanted to obtain a degree in something useful that she

could use for the rest of her life. This is what led her to studying

literature.

McGhee explained that she loves working face to face with students.

The open discussions in a classroom setting give her great joy. McGhee

strives to make her classroom a comfortable place where all students

feel welcomed.

McGhee continued to explain she wants her classroom to be a safe

space for students to develop. She was able to find herself in college,

as she was inspired by her instructors. “Watching my professors helped

me identify who I could be,” said McGhee.

Daytona State freshman Victoria King is a current student of

Professor McGhee’s.  King advised, she is a foreign student and was

struggling with her English course. However, the charismatic attitude

and timely responses of McGhee helped her succeed. “She met with me

numerous times during the semester and explained my mistakes step by

step and showed me ways to correct them,” said King.

The chair of the School of Humanities and Communication, Richard

Vollaro, expressed his thoughts on Professor McGhee. Vollaro explained

that McGhee has been able to find the perfect balance between classroom

lecture, active learning, and technology integration. “Students who take

Professor McGhee can look forward to an engaging experience with an

instructor who fosters a love for literature and a passion for writing,”

said Vollaro.

Vollaro went on to explain the effort and positive energy McGhee

exudes as she carries through her day. “Professor McGee’s door is always

open, and her colleagues benefit from the energy she brings to the

department,” said Vollaro.

McGhee expressed her love for teaching and getting to know each of

her students. “The best part of teaching is getting to know my students

through their writing. Reading 100 essays is the worst, while also the

best part of my job. I get to see who my students are,” said McGhee.

Outside of the classroom McGhee enjoys spending time with her three

children and three grandchildren. McGhee spoke of the great value in

which she places on her family. One of her favorite activities is coming

together for Sunday dinners. 

“Sally McGhee is an excellent professor who works from the heart and

goes out of her way to help her students. She is very understanding,

patient, and knowledgeable. She wants her students to succeed,” said

King. It is clear, McGhee is an inspiration to those around her and

continually strives to educate her students, making all feel wanted.

Daytona State is lucky to have her.

Professor Sally McGhee in her office, photo by Denzell Jones