Brain Injury Association of Illinois honors COD instructor

COD Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration instructor Herb Haushahn was recently honored by the Brain Injury Association of Illinois.

Haushahn, who retired from the college this spring after 30 years of service, was nominated by student Don Brauch for his work to help students with different learning styles.

When Brauch's career as a DuPage County deputy sheriff patrolman ended abruptly following a traffic accident, his long recovery led him to a new career in Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning, but presented him with challenges as he struggled to relearn basic skills due to a severe brain injury.

“I was a police officer for 20-plus years. I was responding to a call and the laptop struck me in the head when I was sideswiped,” The Lombard resident said. “I spent a year and a half at Marianjoy and had to be rehabilitated extensively to learn to walk and talk again.”

With a family history rich in the trade industries, Brauch decided to pursue a certificate in HVAC, but his cognitive skills were impacted by the car accident.

“Herb (Haushahn) would let me take the tests home and would give me extra time, explaining things in a hands-on more direct learning style,” Brauch said. “It does take me longer to learn new things and it can be very frustrating. I can read a page in a book, but only really comprehend it when someone else reads it to me.”

With Haushahn's guidance, Brauch successfully completed his certificate and is pursuing his associate's degree. He also works as a lab assistant, helping other students with the coursework.

Haushahn said adapting to Brauch's needs in the classroom is simply part of his job as a teacher.

“Don came in and felt comfortable with my teaching style,” he said. “I adapted things to better serve his needs. This award was truly an unexpected honor.”

While he's pleased with the work Brauch has completed, Haushahn said the former officer's situation is not unlike those of many veterans returning from active duty.

“Brain injuries, post-traumatic stress disorder and many other illnesses are on the rise, which means we must continue to develop innovative learning options to meet our students' special needs,” he said.