Motivated to “learn continuously and live generatively” I embrace education because it empowers me to shape the lives of others while giving my life greater meaning. With a deep understanding of adult learners, I design projects and assignments that directly relate to their personal and professional perspectives. I firmly believe that education should create a community rather than competition. To achieve this, I foster a collaborative classroom environment infused with laughter and joy. Embracing an interdisciplinary approach, I value and welcome diverse viewpoints, encouraging students to take ownership of their education.
Statement of Community Engagement
Believing underserved adolescents can thrive beyond their limitations, I work to inspire innovation mindsets with entrepreneurship education as the Director of the Each One Teach One Entrepreneurship Institute at Coastal Carolina University. We aim to enhance entrepreneurial acumen, financial literacy, leadership abilities, life skills, and technological expertise in middle and high school students across Horry County. Through interactive experiences and professional education, we empower individuals to develop their ideas, further their education, and succeed in business. Providing opportunities for students to apply their knowledge, skills, and understanding in real-world settings, we align our efforts with the emerging technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. As the Director, I balance its budget, create curriculum, foster fundraising, manage marketing, prepare partnerships, and supervise student scholars.
Statement of Diversity Contribution
Inspired by Fred Rogers’ message of acceptance of others and ourselves, I create a classroom community that values individuality through learning and laughter. Empathy is the cornerstone of my teaching approach which allows students to grow in their own rhyme and time. After all, as Max de Pree stated, “we need to give each other the space to grow, to be ourselves, to exercise our diversity.” I focus on individuals’ potential, not their background. During my time as an expat in the United Arab Emirates, I taught a wide range of students, including Sheikhs and scholarship recipients alike. In the workplace, I embrace my unique identity while connecting with colleagues from diverse cultures and countries. I prioritize strengthening equity efforts on campus and in the larger community. Above all, I recognize the importance of knowing individuals beyond their profession or perception.
Statement of Student Success
Success has many meanings but, in scholarly settings, it starts with students. Albert Einstein’s belief that “a person who never made a mistake never tried anything new” resonates with my role. Failure is a fact of life, but just because something is hard doesn’t mean it’s impossible. My educator instincts activate when empowering students to overcome adversity. The saying “success isn’t just about what you accomplish in your life; it’s about what you inspire others to do,” defines the dynamic with which I align. Realizing the role of relevancy, I avoid assignments requiring repetition. Demanding active engagement, I foster discussions that bridge the gap between theory and practice. Dedicated to differentiated needs, I customize curriculum and flip classes to catalyze critical thinking. Modern minded, I leverage technology to increase engagement, manage knowledge, and maximize learning.
Statement of Teaching Innovation
Technology facilitates collaboration, enhances critical thinking skills, and bridges the gap between learning and practice. Through immersive educational experiences, students connect with peers, industry professionals, and experts worldwide. I integrate cutting-edge software and technology in my classes to enhance student learning and equip them with real-world, marketable skills. By embracing these innovative tools, I create an engaging environment that prepares students for future challenges and opportunities. Throughout the semester, students actively participate in simulations and problem-solving exercises mirroring real-world scenarios. By combining traditional pedagogical methods with innovative technology, the resulting transformative learning experience prepares students for success in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Statement of Teaching Interests
As an educator, I teach undergraduates, graduates, and professionals seeking continuous development. I utilize in-person, blended learning, and online formats to cater to their varied preferences and needs. With more than two decades of industry experience, I leverage my practical knowledge managing people, products, and projects, thereby linking theory and real-world application. Through my interdisciplinary approach and practical integration, I aim to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities needed for success in their professional journeys. My teaching interests include consumer behavior, international business, personal selling, principles of marketing, and social media marketing.
Statement of Teaching Philosophy
Inspired by Søren Kierkegaard’s belief that teaching necessitates lifelong learning, I embark on a shared journey of generative learning with my students. Generative learning involves integrating existing knowledge with emerging ideas, fostering personalized perspectives and active engagement. Guided by my motto “learn continuously, live generatively,” I cultivate a dynamic and innovative learning community.
I teach undergraduates, graduates, and professionals seeking continuous development. I utilize in-person, blended learning, and online formats to cater to their varied preferences and needs. With more than two decades of industry experience, I leverage my practical knowledge managing people, products, and projects, thereby linking theory and real-world application. I utilize insights gained from intellectual explorations to inspire creativity among my students.
Recognizing the importance of relevancy in the process of discovery, I tailor the curriculum to avoid repetitive assignments and emphasize real-world applications. Leveraging technology, I enhance engagement, knowledge management, and overall learning outcomes. Through my interdisciplinary approach and practical integration of information, I aim to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities needed for success in their professional journeys.
Encouraging critical thinking, I foster a culture of knowledge sharing for mutual benefit, where the success of one is celebrated as the success of all. When possible, I involve students in my research, fostering collaboration and exposing them to the latest insights in the field. These findings are then incorporated into the curriculum, ensuring its relevance.
While it can be as challenging as it is rewarding, when asked why teaching is my tenure I explain, “education empowers me to influence individuals and impact organizations while improving myself in the process.”