In recognition of National Hispanic Heritage Month, Union highlights Dr. Guillermina Hernandez
The Passion Behind Teaching
Dr. Guillermina Hernandez
The Passion Behind Teaching
Dr. Guillermina Hernandez is an energetic, dedicated, and performance driven Union Institute & University early childhood expert who knew she wanted to be a teacher by the age of seven.
“I was born in Mexico and immigrated to the United States at age three. I am the oldest of nine siblings and 52 cousins,” said Dr. Hernandez. “I tutored and helped my younger siblings with homework and lessons. I knew from a very early age that teaching was my calling.”
Today Dr. Hernandez continues to share her passion for teaching with adult students who previously worked in low income jobs, even the fields, to a Union bachelor’s pathway in Child & Adolescent Development (CHAD).
“The CHAD career transition offers an endless trajectory career pathway,” said Dr. Hernandez, Site Coordinator, Union Institute & University Child & Adolescent Development (CHAD) program and Program Coordinator of the University of California, Riverside Extension. “It is so rewarding to help non-traditional, first generation students with resources that support in the education process.”
Dr. Hernandez also cherishes the opportunity to teach and advise. “I have the best of both worlds. Being able to teach and advise is so fulfilling. My students and I form a tight knit community. We trust each other.”
Her path in education began with her Bachelor of Science in Child and Adolescent Studies from California State University Fullerton. She received her Master’s in Human Development from Pacific Oaks College, Pasadena, California and her Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Management from Alliant International University, San Diego.
Dr. Hernandez holds a certification and/or membership in the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST), Professional Growth Advisor for the California Childcare Consortium, California Commission on Teacher Credentialing Child Development Director Permit, Environmental Rating Scales (ERS) Trainer, Reliable Program Administration Scale (PAS and Business Administration Scale (BAS).
She is also a Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS) Trainer of Trainers, a CPR and First Aid Certified Trainer, and a Child Development Advisory Panel Member for the California Commission on Teacher Credentials.
Dr. Hernandez is a former volunteer with the Norwalk Sheriffs Youth Activity League.