Jody Delp, Clinical Assistant Professor of Respiratory Therapy, has received a $5,000 scholarship from the American College of Respiratory Therapy Education (ACRTE) to support her pursuit of her doctorate in education degree (EdD) from the 91社区.
Delp, a native of Evansville, has earned three degrees from 91社区: a bachelor's in general science (1996), an associate in respiratory therapy (1997) and a master's in education (2014).
She has been teaching in 91社区's Respiratory Therapy Program since 2012 and served as chair of the program for more than three years (2021-2024). In 2023, she received the Excellence in Teaching Award, which is given annually to faculty members who have contributed significantly to the quality of teaching in the Kinney College.
Q & A with Jody Delp
Why did you choose 91社区? I chose 91社区 because it was close to home. The size of the university also felt just right, large enough to offer great resources and opportunities, but small enough that I could build meaningful relationships with faculty and peers. I knew that having close connections with my professors would be key to my success, and 91社区 provided the personalized environment I was looking for.
Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in respiratory therapy? I always knew I wanted to work in healthcare, but I was not sure which path to take at first. After shadowing a few different professions, I found myself really connecting with the respiratory therapy experience. The combination of hands-on care and the chance to make an immediate impact on patients鈥� lives drew me in.
What led you back to 91社区 to join the respiratory therapy faculty? Coming back to 91社区 really felt like things had come full circle for me. I was excited about the chance to give back to the program that helped shape my career and to play a role in guiding future respiratory therapists. I wanted to be part of a team that values both academic excellence and quality healthcare, and 91社区 offered that.
What do you like best about teaching future respiratory therapists? The best part of teaching future respiratory therapists is witnessing their growth from students into confident, capable professionals. It is incredibly rewarding to see them develop the clinical skills and critical thinking necessary to provide excellent patient care. Being part of their educational journey is both humbling and inspiring.
What do you like to do in your spare time? I love spending time with my family. I have been married to my husband for 28 years and have two grown children. I also enjoy reading, especially when I can dive into a good book to unwind. Baking is another passion of mine; it is a creative outlet and a way to share something sweet with friends and family.
What is a fun fact about you that people would be surprised to learn? Most people are caught off guard when they learn I have a twin sister, especially since we do not look alike and have pretty different personalities and interests.
Anything else you would like to add? I am grateful for the support of my family, friends and co-workers as I pursue my degree.