Debra Eckerman Pitton

Debra Eckerman Pitton was born and raised in Mason City, Iowa. A backpacking trip to California in high school and a European choir tour with Loras College sparked her interest in travel. After teaching in English, speech and theater at the middle and high school levels, she completed her Ph.D. and joined the Education Department at Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, Minnesota. Debra has written and published numerous academic texts and articles related to teaching and mentoring. An advocate for both global and service learning, she combined these interests to develop and teach international travel courses. During these international experiences, students teach English or work in other ways to support local communities. Debra currently lives in Bloomington, Minnesota, with her husband Jon. They have three married children and a wonderful granddaughter. The entire family enjoys traveling and exploring new places.