Why Writing?
I chose to work with writing, learning, and design because I enjoy helping people to make things that work, whether it's a course, a piece of writing, or a multimedia project. Critical and creative thinking are are abilities that are highly valued in the knowledge economy and can be sharpened by learning design elements and strategies.
Research
I researched how writing centers were moving toward a focus on communication which includes but expands beyond traditional term papers. This contributed to the transition of the former UMU Writing Center into the Digital, Written, and Oral Communication Studio. More recently, I spent several years researching and designing Mount Union's Center for Faculty Development. The CFD increases professors' knowledge of high-demand pedagogies and inclusive teaching practices.
Why Mount Union?
I enjoy working with people who are trying to make or do something to discover how they can bring their vision to life.
At Mount Union, you can expect small classes, personal attention from highly qualified faculty, and a highly engaging environment with lots of active learning. You will also learn how to communicate through writing and speaking in a professional environment.
I wanted to spend most of my time teaching and engaging with other people who were motivated by the same goal. I enjoy working with people who are trying to make or do something to discover how they can bring their vision to life. Sometimes they need information. Sometimes a resource. Often, it's literacy--the ability to work in an new medium, with an unfamiliar new technology or set of tools. Seeing someone achieve their vision while gaining a literacy that will serve them forever is one of the best parts of my job.
I’m impressed at the amount of career prep we give students in the Humanities at UMU, including a careers in English and writing course and a required internship experience.