Diversity Statement

            One of the joys of teaching at a university is being able to serve and instruct a body of diverse learners while engendering success to the highest level academically.  This charge requires not only an understanding of the learners, but also sensitivity as to how diversity affects us as individuals.  Therefore, it is paramount that teaching methods, strategies, individualized student needs, along with the mission, vision, values and goals of UNT are considered when I approach a class.

University learners come from varied and diverse backgrounds. They have varied academic experiences, and they are at all levels of learning abilities and needs. Some have had well-rounded secondary educations, while others have had the minimum education to meet high school graduation standards.  Many students may be bilingual learners totally submerged in an academic world using a second language in an academic context for the first time. Beyond educational background and culture, students come from different gender identification and sexual orientation groups. There are students from all parts of the socio-economic strata.  I welcome all kinds of students and strive to accommodate all backgrounds and learning styles.  Every person matters and deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.

I welcome different perspectives in all my classes and make every attempt to use these as opportunities to enrich and engage within my lectures as well as contribute to classroom discussions.  I work diligently to convey that openness and support to all students, whether in a traditional classroom setting or online. I believe instruction should be inclusive and multi-cultural.

I am a life-long learner. I not only read scholarly journals, I also actively participate in academic research and conferences. I’m always eager to share with my colleagues any articles, books, or conferences I find useful. I consider my continued growth as a scholar to be an Integral part to my teaching. I enjoy sharing and learning new teaching techniques and pedagogy.  As technology evolves, I challenge myself to integrate it via instructional delivery modes, curriculum structures or in an appropriately supportive mode.

I have found through the years that embracing the diversity of individuals makes my classroom a better place, elevates my instruction and elevates me as a human being. Dignity and respect are a basic human right.