At an early age, Danny Slone developed a love for learning. When he arrived at Missouri State University, he tried out a variety of majors before settling on history, the program that helped foster his curiosity and satisfy his desire to learn.
“Taking three history courses during my first try, I excelled and grew my love for the field from there,” said Slone. “I enjoy most cultures and nearly any era, but my passion currently is the Middle East, specifically women and politics of the middle period and present day.”
After graduating in 2008 with a degree in history education, Slone spends his days sharing his passion for the past with high school students in Springfield. In the classroom, he encourages students to relate more with the past by making history fun and engaging, all while developing their critical thinking skills.
Slone believes that his success as a teacher largely stems from the education and training he received through the history department and student organizations at Missouri State. “Missouri State’s incredible variety of leadership opportunities—from being a SOAR leader to a resident assistant to a student observer working directly with University faculty on teaching strategies—are what grew my ability to lead a classroom and think creatively,” said Slone.
Each day, Slone relies on his education to help him be an example to his students, develop lesson plans, advise students and balance his work life. “Each of these leadership opportunities taught me about myself and helped me to learn how to best lead by example,” Slone said. “I forged rich friendships with faculty and staff of the University, felt a part of the community on campus and was able to impact the lives of my fellow classmates and friends.”
Slone’s connection to the University continues today. “Being a MSU Bear and alumni of the University means everything to me still because it was at the University that I found my lovely wife Allison, learned what it means to lead, and grew as a gentleman and scholar,” he said.
