We are pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Nina Beck as interim principal of St. John the Baptist. The interim appointment is designed to allow Fr. Timmerman, Dr. Beck and the STJB faculty, staff and school community more time to assess the needs of the school as we seek to find a new and more permanent principal. The length of the interim appointment is for up to one academic year.
Dr. Beck is a very skilled and seasoned educator. She brings not only a great wealth of experience but perhaps more importantly, she brings great love: Great love of education; great love for children; great love for her faculty, staff and families. And most of all, great love for Jesus Christ and His Church!
Please join us in welcoming Dr. Beck to our St. John’s community!
Dr. Beck’s Biography
I began my life in San Antonio, Texas. I am second generation on both sides of my family. I was raised in an Air Force family and proudly wear the badge of “Air Force Brat.” By the time I was in Fourth Grade, I had attended eleven different schools. There were times when we moved, that I was much younger than the other students were, as I began school when I was three. When we lived in Los Angeles, my parents hired a tutor for me and I was educated at home. Of course, this did not last long as we moved many more times. I was in all kinds of settings, non-public, public, Montessori, and government schools. I loved school and I loved books.
Sometimes when we moved, there were no other children, I was an only child and my books were my constant friends. I realize this is why I love books as much as I do. They have always been my “friend” and still are now.
We were living “out of country” when I was ready to attend the University. My oldest and dearest friend decided to attend the University of Nebraska. This is how I ended up in Nebraska.
Originally, I decided to study psychology. I have a double major in psychology and literature. As a result, of my love of books, I decided to go into teaching. I hold Masters in Reading, Elementary Education, Learning Disabilities, Special Education, and a Doctorate in Elementary Education and School Administration.
I have been very blessed with the many people I have come in contact during my involvement in Education. I am extremely grateful for my past awards, which include: Outstanding Young Women of America, Refugee Re-Settlement Award, Mexican American Service Recognition, Parenting in a Multicultural Community Presenter Award, Lifetime Who’s Who in Education Award, President’s Parent Education and Involvement Award, and the Homeless Coalition Service Award.
I have held Offices in Delta Kappa Gamma Honorary, Phi Delta Theta (UNL Campus), The Orton Society, Nebraska Reading Coalition and State Council, Lincoln Foundation Board of Directors, Bright Lights Board and PEO/GQ past president.
I have worked in the following Schools:
- Randolph Elementary and Secondary Schools (San Antonio, Texas)
- Reading Rainbow Television Show (Lincoln, Nebraska)
- Lincoln Public Schools (Lincoln, Nebraska)
*Central Office…Federal Programs (Title Programs and began the Homeless Program for Lincoln Public Schools)
- Lincoln Diocesan Schools…St. Mary’s School (Lincoln) Principal (24 years)
- Lincoln Diocesan Education Office…3 years
*Still “working” with the Homeless each morning
I have a husband, Richard (Dick) and a son, Adam. Adam is a graduate of St. Joseph School, Pius X, and University of Nebraska. I have a daughter in-law and three grandchildren.
My hobbies include reading, gathering necessitates for the Homeless and serving others. I am honored to serve in the Lincoln Diocese.