This week’s #FacultyFriday introduces us to Matthew Russell, who joined the department of nursing and health sciences as an instructor of emergency services and emergency management last year. Mr. Russell is a great addition to PUC’s EMS program and the PUC campus in general, with licenses and certificates in a variety of rescue areas. He’s a perfect fit for a campus with such potential for outdoor education.
Name: Matthew Russell
Title: Instructor of emergency services and emergency management
Email: mrussell@puc.edu
Faculty since: 2016
Classes taught: Public Safety System Design, Emergency Medical Practicum, EMT Lab, Health Education Practicum, Public Health, Fundamentals of Swift Water Rescue, Fundamentals of Technical Rescue, Emergency Scene Management
Education: Bachelor’s degree in international rescue and relief, from Union College, 2014; master’s in education, from Southern Adventist University, 2016
What made you decide to be a teacher?
I chose to become a teacher because I am passionate about learning and I want to share that joy with others. I chose to teach emergency services and emergency management because that is where my skill set and passion lies. There is nothing better than going to work excited about what you will be sharing with the students that day.
What are some of your hobbies?
The majority of my hobbies revolve around the outdoors. I love swimming, downhill skiing, mountain biking, backpacking, whitewater kayaking, whitewater rafting, rock climbing, SCUBA diving, mountain unicycling, and all manner of outdoor adventures. I love the people I have the opportunity to meet and the beautiful places these sports take me every weekend.
What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
I kayaked the Colorado River 16 days through the Grand Canyon.
What’s your favorite thing about PUC?
By far my favorite thing at PUC is the people I have the opportunity to interact with every day. I love my students! They keep me on my toes. My co-workers have been so inviting and supportive. What more could you ask for?
What’s your favorite spot on campus?
Definitely the Dining Commons! It’s where the food and the people are!
What’s your favorite song?
Lately Brad Paisley’s “Last Time for Everything” has been bounding through my brain. I don’t know why, it just has.
What advice would you give to an incoming freshman?
Be BOLD! Don’t be afraid to try something new. Step out and take each day with a smile. Smiles are free after all!
Interested in learning more about PUC’s emergency services program? Visit puc.edu/admissions!