Elizabeth Leach: 38 Years of Teaching with Heart at CR’s Klamath-Trinity Site

Published on Dec 3 2025

For 38 years, Elizabeth Leach has been a pillar of learning and connection at College of the Redwoods. She began her journey as an Instructional Aid in the Learning Skills Center before transitioning into teaching Philosophy, College Success, and GED preparation, subjects that continue to inspire both her and her students. Since 1990, she has taught at the Klamath-Trinity Instructional Site, where she has found deep meaning in the relationships and growth she’s witnessed.

Before joining CR, Elizabeth tutored and led Study Skills Workshops at San Jose State University, where she also student-taught Social and Political Philosophy. She has lived in Humboldt for the past 38 years, making it both her home and the heart of her professional life.

Reflecting on her journey, Elizabeth shares wisdom she would offer her younger self: “When others don’t share your understandings, do not personalize their hostility.” She also has advice for new faculty: “Be yourself. Show respect for your students. Listen to them, their values, struggles, and what they identify as information/skills they need to learn and develop. We do not know what is meaningful to them unless we ask. Cultivate your unique teaching style. Do not apologize for it, and self-correct constantly.”

Elizabeth finds joy in “being part of the growth of my family and community, learning to work more effectively together.” She values colleagues and mentors who act with integrity and put students first, saying, “I am honored to work for an institution that nurtures ethics, difficult conversations, exchanges of ideas, feelings and perspectives in a safe environment. I am grateful to our administration and all staff who defend and protect our learning processes and spaces.”

She also expresses deep gratitude to the Hoopa Career and Technical Education Program and the Hoopa Tribe: “Their partnership with College of the Redwoods achieves amazing results, supporting students in essential aspects of their educational journey.”

For Elizabeth, the most rewarding part of teaching is witnessing students’ growth: “I love being able to witness students’ good intentions and wishes blossom into vocations, life work that transforms the individual, their families, communities, and institutions.” Her favorite are “colors of sunrise and sunset; not sure if there are any colors left out,” reflecting her love for beginnings, growth, and the shared journey of learning.