Katie Conley, assistant professor in Teaching, Learning and Community Engagement, recently joined the TRIO Teacher Prep Podcast to share her experiences as a first-generation college student, TRIO Scholar, and educator dedicated to fostering inclusive learning environments.
Conley’s early education took place in a small rural school, graduating in a class of five. She credits her family and community for shaping her career path, particularly after her younger sister was diagnosed with Down syndrome. “That really shaped my family, my community, and my career path,” Conley said.
As a first-generation student entering College, Conley described the challenges of navigating higher education. She discovered TRIO while working on campus, and the program quickly became a vital support system. “For me personally, it brought me back to that small community. I had counselors, advisors that now knew me and could remember my goals and could say hi to me in the hallways. I had a place to study where familiar faces were there. It just created that environment and helped me to learn some of those gaps,” she shared.
Today, Conley teaches courses, conducts research, and supervises teacher candidates at Boise State. She is known for her focus on connection, collaboration, and evidence-based practice. When reflecting on her teaching journey, Conley emphasized the importance of patience and prioritization:
“Real learning and real change takes time and that I can enjoy the journey and lean into that uncomfortable feeling of not being an expert… I can’t do 100 things well, even if they’re all good things to do. And so that idea of identifying what I can’t do right now, what I can’t focus on or what needs to take a back burner.”
Currently, Conley is partnering with the Emmett School District to support staff wellness and collaboration across all roles, from teachers to administrators.
Conley’s story highlights the impact of the TRIO program in supporting first-generation and underrepresented students. Her ongoing work continues to benefit students, educators, and the broader educational community.
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