Bellevue Psychology Professor Educates Students for Careers, Life

When she was growing up, Roxanne Sullivan, Ph.D., enjoyed learning so much that she became a teacher. For 41 years, the Bellevue University psychology program director has demonstrated her dedication by educating thousands of students.  

Roxanne is quick to point out that the field of psychology is not the same as it was when she first started teaching. “There have been many scientific advancements in understanding the integration of the brain, body, and one’s social environment,” she said. “In addition, employers have come to appreciate people skills, leadership abilities, and diversity awareness. Our psychology students learn to conduct research, cope with stress, collaborate, and respect others. These skills are valued in a variety of jobs and industries.”

Today, psychology degrees are in demand whether a student wishes to attend graduate school or not. Roxanne oversees and teaches in the Bachelor of Science in Psychology and the Bachelor of Arts in Psychology which are both options for future psychology professionals. Closely connected, these degrees differ in the electives students choose to take. 

Students who select a Bachelor of Science (BS) will be encouraged to take more laboratory science and mathematics courses to prepare for research-intensive graduate programs and related careers. The Bachelor of Arts (BA) path incorporates more courses in culture, language, and communications to better position students for graduate programs in counseling, therapy, or related careers.

“I was fortunate to always know I wanted to be a teacher,” Roxanne said. “I had a real connection to psychology and when I taught my first class in graduate school, I felt it was my superpower.” She holds a Master of Science in Child Development from Purdue and a Doctorate in Developmental Psychology from Michigan State. 

When Bellevue University offered her a teaching position over 40 years ago, she knew right away a smaller school was right for her. “Bellevue University has grown so much over the years, but I am still in the right place,” Roxanne added. She has received many awards from Bellevue University including the John Maenner Award for professionalism in teaching.

Along with her influence at Bellevue University, Roxanne is respected nationwide. She has embraced not only digital content but new technology platforms that help students focus on learning key concepts. “For example, students used to spend hours stressing over how to format papers using the required APA style for papers,” Roxanne explained. “Now, the technology handles formatting so they can hone in on critical thinking and writing.”

Bellevue University psychology students also get extensive support. “Our students receive the kind of attention and hands-on experience that isn’t available in large university settings,” Roxanne said. “For example, they do research and develop proposals on their own instead of just assisting a professor in their work. When students get into a job or a graduate degree program they are already ahead of their peers.”

Roxanne is proud that her connections with students often last beyond graduation. She speaks lovingly about her “250 grand babies” — babies born to students over the past four decades while their moms were in Roxanne’s classes. “Students have even brought their babies into class, the little ones recognize my voice,” Roxanne shared with a smile.

Roxanne believes Bellevue University’s psychology programs prepare students to make a difference regardless of their career paths. “People recognize the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion,” she described. “But now more than ever, our world is desperate for more kindness and a sense of belongingness. To me, that’s what all higher education is about — learning to keep an open mind and listening to others without making snap judgments.”