About Bonnie, the Author…
My career spans decades of personal growth and education. I began as a public-school teacher believing that students are most successful by “doing” learning. As an administrator, I served in rural, suburban, and urban areas. Earning my PhD at UConn, I transitioned to higher education, ascending to the roles of Professor and Dean.
Throughout my academic career, I authored and co-authored numerous professional publications and technical reports. My work extended into student outcomes, educational and performance grants and awards, as well as copious research. I have presented at local (School Boards and PTAs), regional (Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Hawaii), national (NELMS, NCATE, CAEP), and international (Japan) events sharing my expertise with fellow educators.
I approacedh education through data-driven research, informing curriculum design and outcomes. My unconventional expertise and innovative design proved in-demand. I consulted with schools and universities in curriculum design; I participated in performance evaluation for State and local school districts; I provided feedback and analysis to authors; and served accreditation evaluation for state and national organizations.
A core dimension of my work has been addressing individual wellness and the challenges of societal integration. I have engaged in political activism, working on voter registration and lobbing for women's rights, health, and family issues in Connecticut and nationally. When my Dad contracted Colon Cancer, I trained as a Hypnotherapists to help with his nausea. I also lost my Mom to cancer. I contracted Autoimmune Encephalitis myself at the same time - during the COVID Pandemic.
Losing a son, Nate, after a two-year battle with Esophageal Cancer at the age of 43, was the most traumatic event of my life.
During COVID so many of us were not able to follow nomral health routines. By the time he was diagnosed, he was stage 4. He maintained a positive atitude even when I knew he was in the depths of despair. He is my hero!
Reaching deep, I accessed personal strength in the face of adversity. Writing became therapy.
I now embark on a new journey as I venture into a new passion with my debut novel. Based on real events and personas, this work of historical fiction has been bubbling in my mind for quite some time. Through research, primary resources, natural science, and a little creative drama, the events unfold.
Enjoy your read!
Remembering… Nathaniel (Butch) with his son, Jackson (Jax), on his shoulders at Castle Craig atop the Hanging Hills overlooking the Merimere Resevoir (Lake) and Mine Island!
Nathaniel Brendan Rabe (July 7, 1980 - August 10, 2023)
Although I have published professionally, this is my first work in the historical fiction genre.
Short hair now, as I am still recovering!
Please reflect on my novel and, if so moved, give me honest feedback!
Professor and Dean!
Author!
I started writing during COVID but became ill. After two years of misdiagnoses during which I became catatonic, I was finally diagnosed with Seronegative Autoimmune Encephalitis triggered by Uterine Cancer.
As I began to heal, learning to walk, talk, balance, and read, I continued writing. Writing became therapy for me.
The book was published on the one year anniversary of my son, Butch’s, passing.
Survivor!
Hiking and camping with Sia and Alfred, our Great Pyrenees.
My Three Sons: Nathaniel (Butch), Jeremiah (Jay) and Geoffrey (Geoff).