She taught physical education in public schools for 10 years before becoming a teacher educator. In 1995 she was named Teacher of the Year by the Maine Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AHPERD) and was named Illinois AHPERD Past President's Scholar in 2007. Dr. Castelli has received numerous awards, including the Contemporary Issues in Technology and Teacher Education Journal Gallery of Exemplary Use of Technology Award in 2004 for her design of the technology course at the University of Illinois. In her leisure time, she enjoys physical activity with her children, outdoor pursuits, and photography.