A Little More

If you find yourself in one of Wendy Chasser’s computer science classes, a quick wit comes in handy. Chasser starts each class with a funny information technology-related question, and if you can guess the answer to her joke, you get an extra point for the class.  

“At the end of the course, this can add up, plus it will make you funnier!” she said. 

Chasser also loves to weave music into her class. The self-described Goo Goo Dolls “groupie” (she even did some social media work for them for a short period of time) plays a song in each class that corresponds to that day’s lesson.  

For Chasser, teaching computer science courses at AACC is her dream job. She is passionate about teaching programming and wants to ensure that she instills in her students a similar passion for whatever they choose to do in life.

“You can make lots of money at being a programmer, but passion for your job is the key to living a long and happy life,” she said. 

In addition to teaching, Chasser is the advisor for the Computer Science Club, which is open to all students, no matter their computer science experience. In the past, the club has run competitions for local high schools and toured the National Cryptologic Museum. 

Chasser is a Pittsburgh native and Steelers fan who enjoys some friendly NFL competition with her students, many of whom are fans of the division-rival Ravens. Outside of the classroom, Chasser describes her most important job as being an extraordinary wife and mother. Her hobbies include activities she can do with family and friends such as boating, skiing, golf and playing the guitar. With her children having left home, her Husky and a “feisty” Pomchi (a Pomeranian and Chihuahua mix) now rule her house.