Social Science Department

Social Science Department Vision Statement

The Social Sciences Department endeavors to nurture student curiosity about the past and present so as to lead them to make informed and creative decisions in a diverse and changing world.  Through questioning, research, analysis, and communication of ideas we help students understand and engage in a lifelong exploration of the human condition.

Faculty:

Matthew Vannelli, Department Chair

• BA Environmental Studies, Ecological Anthropology, Binghamton University
• MAT Secondary Education, Binghamton University
• Teaches Modern European History and PSU Modern European History

Julie Goebel

• BA American Studies, Oregon State University
• M.Ed Curriculum & Instruction, Texas A & M University
• Teaches Modern European History and U.S. History

Donald Housley

• BA History, Portland State University
• MST Social Studies, Portland State University
• Teaches AP® U.S. Government/Politics, Economics, American Government and AP® U.S. History

Joan Nyland '78

• St. Mary's Academy Alumna
• BA History, University of Oregon
• MA Education, University of Michigan
• Teaches World History and Honors World History

Alyssa Tormala

• BA English & Journalism, University of Utah
• MAT, Portland State University
• JD, Stanford University
• Teaches World History, English 11, American Government and Journalism