MU Spotlight 20/20

Camie Modjadidi

What is your role at the college and what is something many may not know about the work you do?

I have the pleasure of placing all our pre-service teachers in field experiences starting in the spring of their freshman year all the way through to their student teaching experience. Teaching is my passion! I teach in the undergraduate and graduate education programs which is just so much fun! I love teaching at 7:30 a.m.!!! I am a morning person. Therefore, I am so grateful for my students who come to class at that time and tolerate my enthusiasm! They are good sports!

A real plus to my job is that I visit teachers, principals and our students in the schools. It is so much fun seeing our students in actual classrooms interacting with "their" students. What makes me smile is that many of our cooperating teachers and principals are Moravian alums! They are making a difference in the lives of children!

I supervise Greer Hockemeier, our fantastic William Penn Community School Coordinator. This has been a wonderful experience for me. Our College has wholeheartedly embraced the William Penn family.

I also co-chair the President's Council for Diversity and Inclusion with Liz Kleintop, which I consider a true privilege. This dedicated group of colleagues is doing such important work.

Perhaps some people do not know that I am a PA Department of Education, Bureau of Special Education Peer Monitor. I monitor school districts with other team members to determine if the districts are in compliance with federal and state special education laws and regulations. This gives me the opportunity to meet wonderful people throughout the state.

My favorite spot on campus is...

Wherever the students are because I love being with them. They are the reason I am here doing what I love. They are just the very BEST!

What’s your favorite Moravian University tradition?

Midnight Oasis because I just love seeing our students and encouraging them during finals. It is wonderful when they see me and give me a hug or say, “Hi Mrs. M. how are you doing!” I think some are surprised I can stay up that late. Vespers is also a very special tradition for me. I grew up in the Central Moravian Church congregation so Vespers have always been an important part of my life. Our College Vespers move me like no other service. To see and hear our students perform makes me smile inside and outside. It starts the Christmas season for me.

I like the color _____ because...

Purple because my birthstone is Amethyst. I love the deep color but also like that the stone comes in a variety of shades; all of which are uniquely beautiful.

Who is your hero? Why?

I have been blessed to have a number of heroes touch my life. My wonderful parents showed me through their words and actions what it means to serve your community and respect your fellow human beings. They were remarkable individuals. My Aunt Mo who lived to be 106 shared her passion for teaching and learning with me. She was truly a wise person. My husband Sunny, who was born in Kabul, Afghanistan and came to the USA to attend Moravian, has opened the world to me. He continues to show me the beauty of our diverse world. I could not ask for a more loving life partner. Our daughter, Karima, who is the absolute joy of my life, has shown me the meaning of inner strength. Her ability to face challenges with courage and dignity is inspiring. She is simply amazing! All these individuals are my heroes. They have given me priceless gifts and have shown me what unconditional love is.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

My father always told me, never do or say anything in anger. Stop and think first. If you don’t, you will nine times out of ten regret your actions and words because you will have hurt another person.

What makes you happy?

Oh this is easy! Giving lots and lots of hugs!