Sister Renee Powell, adjunct professor, retiring after 13 years

By Brooke Rodda

Sister Renee B. Powell has retired after 13 years in the English & Communications departments as a popular adjunct instructor.

In her 13 years as an educator at BYU-Idaho and Ricks College, Sister Powell has taught Public Speaking, Writing for Communications majors, and College Writing courses.

“Whether it be funny anecdotes, jokes, or lively re-enactments, the classroom was never dull once Sister Powell walked through the door,” former student Traci Romans said.

Prior to coming to BYU-Idaho, Sister Powell judged speech and debate competitions for 20 years at Idaho State. She also enjoyed substitute teaching at her children’s elementary schools because she then knew what kind of an education they were getting.

Sister Powell received a composite bachelors’ degree in English, Speech, and Drama from Brigham Young University- Provo in 1969.  Just four days before graduation,  Sister Powell married Dondavid Powell in the Salt Lake Temple.

After their marriage, Sister Powell made the decision to stay home and raise their children.

 “I have come to believe that there is a season for everything, and as women we can have it all. We can go to school, raise a family and have a career.” Sister Powell said.

Brother and Sister Powell have eight children — six boys and two girls — and 13 grandchildren.

After retirement Sister Powell and her husband plan to teach English at Nankai University in China for the summer.  Once they return from China they plan on submitting papers to serve a full-time mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.