Student Profile: Jodi Saito

Educators shape the character, caliber, and future successes of students on a day-to-day basis. The impact teachers bestow can last a lifetime, producing new generations of leadership. That’s why senior Jodi Saito decided to pursue her passion for teaching at William Penn University, transferring from Dodge City Community College in Kansas to WPU as a sophomore to major in Elementary Education.

“The professors in my major are wonderful and the smaller class sizes help me to focus and be a better student,” she says. “I also chose William Penn because I was able to come and continue playing the sport I love – golf.”

Originally hailing from Mililani, Hawaii, Jodi has been able to make lasting memories here in Oskaloosa, Iowa.

“One of my most memorable experiences so far here has been winning a championship title and being able to go to Nationals with the William Penn University Women’s Golf Team,” reveals Jodi.

Former William Penn University Women’s Golf Coach and current Director of Athletics Nik Rule says that Jodi is the true definition of a student-athlete, prioritizing academics but dedicating time to her sport.

“In golf she started on our junior varsity team and worked with the coaches to address what she needed to in order to be successful,” AD Nik Rule says. “She ended up working her way onto the varsity team and was a vital part of two conference championships and was a two time all-conference athlete. Without her dedication and focus towards being goal-driven, this would have never happened. She worked hard to overcome challenges and accomplished goals she never thought were possible.”

When she isn’t golfing with her teammates or student-teaching at Oskaloosa Middle School or Knoxville West Elementary, Jodi’s smiling face is behind the counter locally at Edmundson & Harvest Point Golf Course.

“I do check-ins, I make tee times, and I get to bring the beverage cart around, too,” she says.

After graduation, Jodi plans to find a teaching job and work as a substitute teacher in schools in the Oskaloosa area.