Theresa Rochambeau

Theresa Rochambeau is honored to have been with Pacific Oaks College and Children's School since 1997, when she began her studies at the college. She first learned about Pacific Oaks in the mid-90s. Theresa realized that social justice and valuing the child were the philosophy and mission of the college, preparing students to be culturally intelligent agents of change. She knew it was the place she wanted to be. In 2002, after earning her master's degree in Human Development with an emphasis on college teaching, Theresa began teaching as an Adjunct Faculty member, is now a Senior Adjunct Faculty member, and she has taught a variety of classes over the years. She began serving on thesis committees in 2013, starting out as a 3rd Reader on committees chaired by Dr. Betty Jones, and it 2016 moving into the role of 2nd Reader. It is an honor to Theresa to share in the thesis journey's of our amazing PO students.

Theresa has over 30 years experience in the fields of early childhood education, child development, adult education, human development, academic administration, and parent education. She has been a preschool teacher, center director, and college instructor, along with having taught childbirth classes as part of her devotion to children and families. She has served in non-profit and for-profit childcare settings, as well as church-related centers, college campus child development centers, and employer-related centers. Theresa has advocated for play as being essential for optimal child development.

Respect, authenticity, learner-centered environments, anti-bias curriculum, diversity, social justice, and advocacy are at the core of her practice in teaching children and adult learners. Knowing one's calling and purpose is a joyful and rewarding experience. Theresa found hers in teaching, and it has been her life's work.