Jasmine LaBine’s ‘Mr. Feeny’ inspiration makes the news
Jasmine LaBine, visiting instructor of communication studies, shows her “Do good” tattoo during a recent class session in Olin Hall.
Albion College Visiting Instructor of Communication Studies Jasmine LaBine is passionate about teaching — and she’s not afraid to show it. LaBine, who teaches courses such as Intro to Human Communication, Mass Communication, Sports Leadership, and Women in Media, marked her 10th year in the classroom with a tattoo that reads “Do good,” a nod to the beloved advice of George Feeny, the iconic teacher from the hit 1990s sitcom Boy Meets World.
That character, played by actor William Daniels, has long inspired LaBine’s approach to education. She even incorporates episodes of the show into her curriculum, citing the lessons of mentorship, curiosity, and integrity it imparts as timeless tools for building meaningful student relationships.
LaBine and her teaching philosophy were recently featured in a Washington Post article about Daniels, now 98, who made a surprise appearance last week on Dancing With the Stars. The television legend reunited on stage with his former co-star Danielle Fishel, who played Topanga Lawrence, as she competed on the show.
Mr. Feeny talks with students during the final episode of Boy Meets World.
The article explored the lasting cultural impact of Daniels’ portrayal of Mr. Feeny — a fictional teacher whose influence extends far beyond television — and highlighted educators like LaBine who continue to bring his wisdom into real-world classrooms. For LaBine, that influence is more than nostalgic; it’s a daily reminder of the power teachers have to guide, support, and inspire their students to “dream, try, and do good.”
“It was an honor to be mentioned in an article paying tribute to not only the fictional character that helped me to find my life’s purpose, but the man who so carefully and thoughtfully brought him to life,” LaBine said. “Boy Meets World was a can’t miss show for me growing up, and it stuck with me as a comfort watch through college and adulthood. I grew up watching the characters navigate young love, friendship, education, and more deep, social issues than I think a lot of folks remember being depicted on the show,” she added. “Even at a young age, however, Mr. Feeny’s character was the one who kept me watching year after year. He embodies the teacher that I strive to be: compassionate, but challenging. He celebrates his students’ successes and helps them find growth from their mistakes.”
