While my dedication to education—whether in the classroom, guiding professional learning for colleagues, or contributing to curriculum development and publications—is a cornerstone of my life and brings me immense fulfillment, there’s a vibrant world of passions that truly shape who I am when I step away from that work. This page is where you can get to know the “me” outside of my professional roles – the pursuits that truly light me up and connect me to the wider world. Think of it as a peek into my life when I’m not immersed in academic pursuits, but rather out in nature, lost in a book, or, most likely, covered in dog fur.
Advocating for Our Furry Friends
One of the biggest forces pulling at my heart is animal welfare. My connection to animals runs deep; I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t drawn to them, even if some took a bit longer to warm up to. In a world that can often feel overwhelming and overstimulating, there’s always been something incredibly calming about simply being in the presence of an animal, just enjoying quiet companionship (and maybe a few requested pets!). Everything truly clicked when I got my first dog, Rockit. The profound companionship and unwavering support she brought into my life ignited a desire to help others experience that same special bond, especially with animals who need it most. This led me to seek out opportunities to give back in the animal welfare space. My journey even included fostering, which, in a delightful turn of events, led to a “foster fail” with our newest addition, an adorable and feisty kitty named Louis!
I’m a huge advocate for our furry friends, and you’ll find me at the Oregon Humane Society every week. My involvement there spans a few roles, each one incredibly rewarding. On Sundays, I get to supervise our Youth Volunteer program, helping students learn about animal care and empathy. I also spend time as a Kennel Buddy, working one-on-one with nervous dogs to help them adjust to shelter life, build their confidence, and develop skills that will make it easier for them to find their forever homes. Beyond that, I love diving into events, from the annual Doggie Dash to helping with adorable animal photoshoots. I even take classes to continuously learn how to be a better pet parent and, more importantly, the best human I can be for these vulnerable animals. If you share this passion and want to learn more or support this incredible organization, I encourage you to check them out here.
Exploring the World Around Us
Stepping into nature is where I feel most at home. My passion for the outdoors has grown immensely, and living in the Pacific Northwest offers incredible opportunities to explore. I particularly love to hike, finding a deep sense of calm and contentment among the trees and in the varied landscapes of this region. This drive to explore extends beyond local trails; I’m also passionate about traveling and discovering new natural environments wherever I go.
Lost in a Good Story
My brain has a serious case of “bookworm,” and I happily indulge it by devouring stories across all sorts of genres. But if you’re looking for me, chances are I’ve vanished into a fantasy world. These sprawling narratives and intricate settings aren’t just escapes; they’re like personal growth seminars disguised as epic adventures! I’ve learned so much from characters battling their demons (and dragons), and I genuinely believe it’s broadened my perspective and cranked up my empathy… maybe a little too much, considering I now tear up at practically everything. For me, books are the ultimate travel hack – doors to infinite places and profound lessons about humanity, one page at a time. If you’re interested in being Goodreads friends, find me here! But, hey, this is a judgment-free zone!
Shawna Jensen, Ed.D. 