Teaching Philosophy

“The classroom, with all its limitations, remains a location of possibility. In that field of possibility we have the opportunity to labor for freedom, to demand of ourselves and our comrades, an openness of mind and heart that allows us to face reality even as we collectively imagine ways to move beyond boundaries, to transgress. This is education as the practice of freedom.”.

— bell hooks

Academic Portfolio

Teaching Philosophy

As an experienced educator with a rich interdisciplinary background, my teaching philosophy centers on fostering dynamic, inclusive, and multimodal learning environments that cater to diverse student needs. My multifaceted academic journey equips me with a unique perspective that bridges the gap between theory and practice, allowing me to create
engaging educational experiences.

I cultivate an evidence-based pedagogy that emphasizes community-building, integrative learning, and inclusivity. This approach allows me to support students from diverse academic and personal backgrounds, fostering an environment where all voices are valued and every student can thrive. I am deeply committed to collaboration, both within the
classroom and beyond. By engaging expert guest speakers and forming partnerships with cultural institutions, I enrich the learning experience and expose students to a variety of perspectives and real-world applications of the concepts we explore. These interactions not only enhance students’ understanding but also inspire them to engage critically with the material, encouraging a deeper exploration of the subject matter.

My approach incorporates interdisciplinary and multimodal pedagogies to ensure effective knowledge transfer. I believe in cultivating a learning environment that values creativity, critical thinking, and inclusivity. Through my skillful integration of arts-based curriculum studies, critical pedagogies, and multicultural perspectives, I strive to create a classroom atmosphere where all students feel valued and are encouraged to express their individual viewpoints and experiences.

Drawing from my interest in African Diasporic Arts and museum education, I employ a variety of teaching methodologies that extend beyond traditional classroom settings. I work with my students to examine how historical objects can enhance meaning-making and foster linguistic, visual, and media literacies, among others. By utilizing real-world contexts and cultural artifacts, I deepen understanding and engagement, making learning more relatable and impactful. This approach not only cultivates a broader appreciation for diverse cultures and histories but also integrates arts-based and multimodal strategies that engage students actively and holistically. As a result, students enhance their comprehension while also being inspired to think creatively and critically.

My commitment to excellence in education is reflected in the heartfelt feedback I receive from my students, as well as the multiple awards, honors, and recognition I have garnered throughout my career, including prestigious grants and fellowships that support my research and innovative projects. These experiences reinforce my belief that education is a collaborative and evolving process where both teachers and students continually learn from one another.

Ultimately, my goal as an educator is to cultivate a supportive and inspiring learning environment that empowers students to pursue their intellectual curiosities, develop critical thinking skills, and become lifelong learners prepared to make meaningful contributions to society. Through collaboration and engagement with diverse voices, I strive to inspire students to embrace their potential and foster a commitment to social responsibility.

As a dedicated lifelong learner, I consistently participate in professional development to enhance my teaching practice. Most recently, I completed training at the Columbia Center for Teaching and Learning (CTLE) in the Leveraging Embodied Learning Spaces Seminar, as well as at Hunter College’s BMCC/HCAP Faculty Seminar Series, where I focused on Asian American students in the city and created an arts-based intervention to implement in my courses.

I hold a Doctorate in Curriculum and Teaching with a specialization in multicultural arts-based practices, a B.F.A. from NYU Tisch School of the Arts in Film/TV Production (with a French minor), an M.A. in Communications from the University of Southern California, and an M.S.Ed in Education from the City College of New York, CUNY. These educational experiences not only inform my teaching philosophy but also reinforce my commitment to fostering an inclusive and dynamic learning environment.