Instructor Bios
Laurila, Kathleen
J. Kathleen Laurila is an adjunct instructor in the Interior Design program. Her areas of specialty are art history, architecture, and design. She began teaching at DCTC in 2000.
Kathleen has a master's degree in mass communication from Drake University. She has a bachelor's degree in interior design from the University of Minnesota.
As the director of her own design firm, she has 30 years of experience as a professional in her field, specializing in contract/commercial interior design and specification writing. Her many projects included offices in the insurance, banking, and hospitality industries. She also worked on educational institutions, retirement facilities, specialty medical facilities, state government buildings, multi-housing, residential construction, furnishings, and historical renovations, including the Iowa State Capitol.
She previously taught as an adjunct instructor in College of Design at Iowa State University. Among other honors, she is a recipient of the Small Business Administration Iowa Woman in Business Award.
In connection with the American Association of University Women and the International Federation of University Women, Kathleen has published works relating to volunteerism in advancing the status of women.
"Conceptual development and schematic design are one third of studio course work," she says, regarding her teaching philosophy. "Design solutions make up the balance of design development and practical application."
Employing nonlinear methods, she focuses on experiential learning, multimedia, small group activities, and teacher-facilitated discussion. She prefers team teaching for studio classes.
"I like to use community resources," she says, "such as in-class presentations and critiques plus field trips to see manufacturing sites, representatives, and dealers as well as workrooms and galleries."
As for the best part of her job as a DCTC instructor, she states, "It is satisfying to me to be able to use my industry experience to bring a sense of 'reality' to the educational setting. In turn, this is beneficial for the student."
By championing human rights and equal access to education, Kathleen stands out as an international leader in advancing the status of women. In both civic and government roles, she is active in promoting appropriate energy technology, environmental protection, peaceful globalization strategies, family planning, balanced population programs, and small business opportunities.
Contact Information
- Kathleen Laurila
- kathleen.laurila@dctc.edu
