Education
M.A., English
City University of New York
M.S., TESOL
Wilkes University
B.A., English
Wagner College
Philosophy of Teaching
An effective language instructor is present for students, encourages self-awareness and communication, and genuinely gets to know students. I believe that exemplary teachers are learners themselves and recognize the opportunities to learn from students. Learners’ individual experiences, perspectives, backgrounds, and knowledge are invaluable in the classroom. Assessing and recognizing individual responses to content and encouraging students to make personal connections to course material that extends beyond the classroom is a clear indication of a genuine passion for education. Enthusiasm is often contagious. My ultimate goal is not only to inspire academic achievement but to cultivate an excitement for learning.
Professional Interests
- Literature as a Means of Enhancing Cultural Competence
- Reading and Writing as a Tool for Language Learning
- Building Self-confidence and Lowering Affective Barriers to Language Learning
- 5x10 Beyond Words: Reading, Discussions, and Analysis
- Social and Emotional Learning (SEL): Engaging Students Through Social Research and Writing
- ESL Advocate for Community College L2 Learners
- Northampton Community College Bookstore Advisory Committee ESL Advocate
- Penn TESOL East Member and Presenter
- International TESOL Member and Presenter
- Faculty Advisor for Freshmen Research Group
Selected Professional Presentations
- Universal Design for L2 Learners (Northampton Community College/ Feb. 2016)
- Positive Affirmations (International TESOL/ Apr. 2016)
- Don’t Be Boring (Penn Tesol East/ Apr. 2015)
- Northampton Community College Learning Center Convocation: Tutoring that Supports Second Language Learners (Northampton Community College Monroe Campus/ Aug. 2014)
Publications
- 2018, April 24. "Teaching ESL Writers Research Through Eco-Composition." Environmental Responsibility Professional Learning Network Newsletter, no. 8. With Ashley Murphy, Mary Newbegin, and Kayla Landers
Languages Spoken
English and Spanish