We found 25 results that contain "educatorstories"

This week, we are featuring Dr. Kathy Hadley, Assistant Professor in the Department of Writing, Rhetoric, and American Cultures (WRAC).  Kathy was recognized via iteach.msu.edu's Thank and Educator Initiative! We encourage MSU community members to nominate high-impact Spartan educators (via our Thank an Educator form) regularly!
Read more about Dr. Hadley’s perspectives below. #iteachmsu's questions are bolded below, followed by their responses!

You were recognized via the Thank an Educator Initiative. In one word, what does being an educator mean to you? What does this word/quality look like in your practice? Have your ideas on this changed over time? If so, how?
Now more than ever, empathy is essential to being an educator.  I teach first-year writing in the Department of Writing, Rhetoric, and American Cultures.  My courses are highly interactive, but students struggle to learn when they’re overly stressed, anxious, or generally preoccupied.  Early in the pandemic I participated in a great deal of training for best practices in online-teaching.  What struck me was the emphasis not just on educational technology but on being a genuine caring presence for students and doing everything we can to help them, whether that means connecting them with university resources or simply being there for them.  We also need to remember how much they’ve lost over the past couple of years and how those loses still resonate.  I am fortunate to work in a department that recognizes these concerns and to teach a curriculum that encourages self-reflection. Teachers need to be flexible and understanding as students find their way back. 
What is a challenge you experience in your educator role? Any particular “solutions” or “best practices” you’ve found that help you support student success at the university despite/in the face of this?
One particular challenge is keeping students focused on their learning in a time of great stress, as I noted above.  Academically, best practices include keeping students oriented to course plans and expectations; this can be as simple as frequent reminders about what we’re doing next and why it matters.  More generally, best practices include a wholistic approach to students’ well-being in ways that help them move forward and succeed in the course rather than getting lost or drifting away. 
What are practices you utilize that help you feel successful as an educator?
Over the past two years, especially, I’ve benefited greatly from the many resources available through WRAC, the College of Arts and Letters, and the university.  Many of these resources are geared toward professional development, but there’s been a strong through-line of ensuring compassionate and empathic teaching practices.  I am especially grateful to my WRAC colleagues and administrators for their collegiality and their extraordinary efforts on behalf of faculty and students through workshops, shared resources, and check-in sessions.  I also rely, as always, on the MSU Library’s first-year writing teaching librarians and on making sure students are aware of the resources they have through the MSU Neighborhood Centers; the Writing Center; the English Language Lab; the Resource Center for Persons with Disabilities; and Counseling and Psychiatric Services.

Don't forget to celebrate individuals you see making a difference in teaching, learning, or student success at MSU with #iteachmsu's Thank an Educator initiative. You might just see them appear in the next feature!

This week, we are featuring Alexis Black, Assistant Professor in the Department of Theatre.  Alexis was recognized via iteach.msu.edu's Thank and Educator Initiative! We encourage MSU community members to nominate high-impact Spartan educators (via our Thank an Educator form) regularly!
Read more about Alexis’ perspectives below. #iteachmsu's questions are bolded below, followed by their responses!

You were recognized via the Thank an Educator Initiative. In one word, what does being an educator mean to you? 
Inspiration!
What does this word/quality look like in your practice? Have your ideas on this changed over time? If so, how?
I love inspiring theatre students and instilling confidence by finding their sense of play, and I love empowering individuals to use their unique voices to share whatever inspires them. I love finding new practices through my research and creative activities, and bringing these practices to the classroom to re-inspire these artists who are the future of our profession. I believe learning and growing are an ongoing process that includes always taking in what is around us—which is literally what it is to “inspire”— to breathe in.  As students, teachers and artists we must be taking in and absorbing as much as we can, and be truly present to how each new inspiration changes us and our art. What each student does with each moment of inspiration is unique, and that individuality and creativity in turn inspires me right back! 
Tell me more about your educational “setting.” This can include, but not limited to departmental affiliations, community connections, co-instructors, and students. (AKA, where do you work?)
I work in the Theatre Department at Michigan State University with our talented and driven cohort of MFA-candidate Artist-Educators, and our amazing undergraduate theatre students. I am extremely proud to work alongside so many collaborative, compassionate and innovative artists, students and educators.  
What is a challenge you experience in your educator role? Any particular “solutions” or “best practices” you’ve found that help you support student success at the university despite/in the face of this?
I have found the understandable rise of anxiety and depression a challenge for students to pair with often emotionally vulnerable work in the theatrical classroom. I have experienced more success in supporting students in this area due to focus on self-care and closure practices I have gained through professional trainings and research, and incorporating more playful, creative ways into the work has been beneficial as well. I discovered that telling the story of an emotion through physical movements (rather than creating a psychological connection) can be incredibly freeing for students in relation to mental and emotional health. Our bodies are truly instruments for storytelling in this profession; Incorporating powerful ways to keep our instruments confidently and safely “tuned,” and finding skills to use our instruments both fully and with care, can help to nurture the resilient and empowered actors of tomorrow.  
What are practices you utilize that help you feel successful as an educator?
I practice mindful communicative practices that encourage presence, active listening and support of individuality, such as conversations about boundaries before physical touch, check-ins, ensemble-building exercises, discussions on the relationship between comfort and growth as an artist, and projects that encourage empathy through collaborative creation. I find continuing to work professionally artist and remaining a student myself through ongoing professional trainings in my area of expertise to lead to many of my successes as an educator—immersing myself in contemporary practices and productions keeps a connection for my students to the theatre of today and tomorrow.  I also find an intentional emphasis on ownership over their work and their process as artists to be a successful way to hand off the reigns on their work—I am an introductory guide, but they must forge their own path.  If they can leave the classroom with a toolkit they can both use and individualize, I feel I have been a successful educator.
What are you looking forward to (or excited to be a part of) next semester?
In Fall 2022 I will be teaching the graduate MFA students about extreme physical storytelling, including staged violence and staged intimacy. It’s vital to foster consent-forward and trauma-informed educators and artists to join the workforce in the theatre industry, and especially at the graduate level in the department of theatre as our MFA students are training both as artists and educators. 


Don't forget to celebrate individuals you see making a difference in teaching, learning, or student success at MSU with #iteachmsu's Thank an Educator initiative. You might just see them appear in the next feature!

This week, we are featuring Ken Szymusiak, Managing Director – Academic Programs, within the Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at MSU. Ken was recognized via iteach.msu.edu's Thank and Educator Initiative! We encourage MSU community members to nominate high-impact Spartan educators (via our Thank an Educator initiative) regularly!
Read more about Ken’s perspectives below. #iteachmsu's questions are bolded below, followed by their responses! 


You were recognized via the Thank an Educator Initiative. In one word, what does being an educator mean to you?  
Trust 
Share with me what this word/quality looks like in your practice?
I feel like students have entrusted me with their time and I want to make sure they leave my classroom feeling that they gained something useful for the adventures that lie ahead.
Tell me more about your educational “setting.” This can include, but not limited to departmental affiliations, community connections, co-instructors, and students. (Aka, where do you work?)
I have a really unique setting. Although my home base for teaching is within the Management department in the Broad College of Business my classes are open campus wide. One of the hallmark qualities of the Burgess Institute’s programming is that it is open to all students from the Minor in Entrepreneurship & Innovation, to our New Venture Creation Programs, to our Innovate Speaker series, and many more. Entrepreneurship and innovation thrive on diversity and creativity and I love that MSU has fully embraced this mission.
What is a challenge you experience in your educator role?
I think the biggest challenge as an educator is empowering students to participate in the path the class takes. The best learning happens when students feel like they are co-creating and not just being “lectured to.”
Any particular “solutions” or “best practices” you’ve found that help you support student success at the university despite/in the face of this? 
I think the key to unlocking student engagement is really getting to know what their interests are and trying to provide them with relevant and realistic examples of how the material is being applied in fields that really excite them.
What are practices you utilize that help you feel successful as an educator?
I don’t know if I have any particular practices, but I really love when students reach out after they had my class for more information or resources which show genuine curiosity. I also really enjoy it when students refer a friend to take one of my classes…there’s no greater compliment.
What topics or ideas about teaching and learning would you like to see discussed on the iteach.msu.edu platform? Why do you think this conversation is needed at MSU?
I think we have a unique opportunity with the current generation of students to reimagine the value of higher education. I get a sense that there is quite a bit of anxiousness and cynicism amongst this group of students. I think it should be our mission to transform the college experience so that every student feels as if they truly get their monies worth regardless of major. I think all ideas should be on the table to reimagine the college experience.
What are you looking forward to (or excited to be a part of) next semester?
Seeing people...haha
But in all seriousness, I think the big lesson from 2020 was not to take anything for granted. I wonder if this will affect how we engage with students and how they engage with us. I’m most curious to see if there are any cultural changes on this front

Don't forget to celebrate individuals you see making a difference in teaching, learning, or student success at MSU with #iteachmsu's Thank an Educator initiative. You might just see them appear in the next feature! Follow the MSU Hub Twitter account to see other great content from the #iteachmsu Commons as well as educators featured every week during #ThankfulThursdays.

This week, we are featuring Micaela Flores, Outreach and Retention Specialist, within the College of Veterinary Medicine at MSU. Micaela was recognized via iteach.msu.edu's Thank and Educator Initiative! We encourage MSU community members to nominate high-impact Spartan educators (via our Thank an Educator initiative) regularly!
Read more about Micaela perspectives below. #iteachmsu's questions are bolded below, followed by their responses! 

You were recognized via the Thank an Educator Initiative. In one word, what does being an educator mean to you?  
Responsive
Share with me what this word/quality looks like in your practice?
My role is divided between undergraduate advising and youth outreach programming for traditionally underserved students. When I advise students, I am not only focused on imparting the knowledge and information they need to complete a task or prepare for an opportunity, I focus on where the student is in terms of their familiarity with the systems, departments, or tasks they need to navigate. I listen to their concerns and take my time to understand the things that are important to them and I make sure they leave with a thorough understanding of where they are and what they need to do next. Similarly, when coordinating youth programs, I assess the audience or participants' needs, their existing knowledge and skill levels as well as the needs and desires of the agency requesting the collaboration in effort to create programs and events responsive to the groups’ unique needs.
Have your ideas on this changed over time? if so how?
If I was asked what the role of an educator was as a recent college graduate and high school college adviser, I would have responded with something along the lines of, educators impart knowledge and share information relevant to their educational role. I now understand the importance of meeting students where they are and tailoring my approach or method to fit the needs of the students’ I work with. A one size fits all approach does not work when one’s goal is to provide equitable programs and services.
Tell me more about your educational “setting.” This can include, but not limited to departmental affiliations, community connections, co-instructors, and students. (Aka, where do you work?)
I am a member of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion team in the College of Veterinary Medicine, Office of Admissions, Student Life, and Inclusivity. My work is entirely grant funded through the State of Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity King-Chavez-Parks Initiative for students from underserved backgrounds both financially and academically. I provide academic advising for undergraduate pre-veterinary and veterinary-nursing students as they work towards application and admission to the Veterinary Nursing and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine programs. I also work with youth from our target locations which include Detroit, and Lansing. I have also partnered with groups from Flint and Grand Rapids.CVM, MSU & Community connections:

MSU GEAR UP
MSU GATE Guppy
MSU Latinx Student Success Committee
MSU Assessment and Metrics Working Group
MSU Pre-College Committee
MSU CANR, Pathfinders, AIMS and AIMS-B
MSU Admissions, Dia de La Familia, African American Family Day
MSU CVM Enrichment Summer Program
MSU Office of Cultural and Academic Transitions
MSU Collaborative Learning Center
MSU Student Groups – ASMSU, MSU Preveterinary Club, Delta Tau Lambda Sorority Incorporated.
MSU Dia de La Mujer Conference
MSU New Student Orientation
Michigan Humane (former Michigan Humane Society)
Capital Area College Access Network – CapCan Launch Your Dream Conference
Detroit International Academy for Young Women
Clinton County RESA Career Expo
Flint Area and Capital Area Michigan Career Quest Fairs
Michigan Veterinary Conference
The Fledge – Lansing
Detroit Horsepower

What is a challenge you experience in your educator role?
Time is the biggest challenge. When I began practicing inclusive and responsive pedagogical methods, the amount of time I spent in advising appointments increased significantly. I regularly went over my 30 minute time slots. Now that I am familiar with responsive strategies, appointments are not as long. While time is a challenge it is important to embrace new practices and allow time to learn and adjust.
Any particular “solutions” or “best practices” you’ve found that help you support student success at the university despite/in the face of this? 
As an educator, it is important for me to know my students feel heard and leave with a comprehensive understanding of what was discussed. I have found the technology we have at our fingertips can be leveraged to provide facilitation strategies inclusive of all learners. For example, I always share my screen or seat my students in an area where they can see what I am doing or looking for, I follow up with an email summarizing our discussion, and/or I invite the student to follow up with me via email or by scheduling another appointment with me if we run out of time.
What are practices you utilize that help you feel successful as an educator?
In addition to the best practices listed above, I have created event planning templates to ensure I do not miss or forget critical information. I like to set reminders on my calendar to follow up with students who may be struggling academically as well as reading ESAE reports and following up with students to either congratulate them for their progress or intervene if they are not doing well. This enables me to practice proactive and intrusive advising strategies.
I feel most successful as an educator when I receive positive feedback or sentiments of gratitude from my students, when I see a student who was placed on probation return to good academic standing, or when a student I have advised, supervised, and/or written a letter of recommendation for is admitted to veterinary school.
What topics or ideas about teaching and learning would you like to see discussed on the iteach.msu.edu platform? Why do you think this conversation is needed at msu?
I would like to see more information relevant to equitable practices to improve the ways in which we teach diverse students in our courses as well as ways to enhance the programs and services we offer. Practicing culturally inclusive or responsive pedagogy seems difficult on the surface or when the concepts are new, but there are simple changes we can embrace that make a world of difference to our students. I would like to learn more from educators who are also doing this work.
What are you looking forward to (or excited to be a part of) next semester?
Next semester, I will continue to make progress towards the Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education, M.A. program which is where I have picked up inclusive and responsive strategies for teaching and learning. I am excited to continue to learn and improve my educational practice to help my students succeed in higher education.

Don't forget to celebrate individuals you see making a difference in teaching, learning, or student success at MSU with #iteachmsu's Thank an Educator initiative. You might just see them appear in the next feature! 

This week, we are featuring Julie Strachota, Assistant Professor of Health Programs in Large Animal Clinical Sciences, within the College of Veterinary Medicine at MSU. Julie was recognized via iteach.msu.edu's Thank and Educator Initiative! We encourage MSU community members to nominate high-impact Spartan educators (via our Thank an Educator initiative) regularly!
Read more about Julie’s perspectives below. #iteachmsu's questions are bolded below, followed by their responses! 

You were recognized via the Thank an Educator Initiative. In one word, what does being an educator mean to you?  
Passion
What does this word/quality looks like in your practice? Have your ideas on this changed over time? If so how?
I believe that being an educator requires passion for those that you are educating.  I strive to be empathetic while creating excitement and enthusiasm within the classroom and/or clinic.  Educators are constantly learning as well in order to keep up-to-date on the cutting edge material in their topic of specialization. 
Tell us more about your educational “setting.” This can include, but not limited to departmental affiliations, community connections, co-instructors, and students. (AKA, where do you work?)
I am an assistant professor within the Large Animal Clinical Sciences Department at the College of Veterinary Medicine.  I am also the Director of Clinical Education for the College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM). I have the pleasure of working with veterinary students and veterinary nursing students throughout their 4 years at the CVM.   
I am a boarded theriogenologist and teach animal reproduction and equine primary care topics within the CVM curriculum. On the clinic floor, I run the large animal theriogenology service within the Veterinary Medical Center at MSU.  I also moderate two clinical clerkships for equine-focused students in equine primary care and equine theriogenology. 
What is a challenge you experience in your educator role? Any particular “solutions” or “best practices” you’ve found that help you support student success at the university despite/in the face of this?
One challenge that I experience is getting students excited to learn about the topic that I am teaching.  My solution for this is to make the classroom fun and exciting.  I try to teach clinically applicable topics and give examples of how students will see this topic in clinical practice. 
What are practices you utilize that help you feel successful as an educator?
I try to continually improve the student experience within the classroom by adding hands-on experiences and clinically applicable topics.   
I truly care about the students and want them to succeed.  When I am teaching, I am 100% focused on those students and the task at hand.  I let all other stresses or obstacles pause during my time in the classroom.   
I am passionate about the topics that I teach which helps me be successful as an educator.  If you love what you do and what you teach, it is easy to go to work everyday and share that passion. .
What are you looking forward to (or excited to be a part of) next semester?
I am excited for my new role as Director of Clinical Education.  I hope to make a positive impact on veterinary and veterinary nursing students by continuing to improve clinical opportunities. I am excited to continue to teach veterinary students at different points throughout their journey in veterinary education. I hope that I am a role model for veterinary students both in the classroom and on the clinic floor. 

Don't forget to celebrate individuals you see making a difference in teaching, learning, or student success at MSU with #iteachmsu's Thank an Educator initiative. You might just see them appear in the next feature! 

This week, we are featuring Hui-Ling Malone, Assistant Professor of English Education.  Dr. Malone was recognized via iteach.msu.edu's Thank and Educator Initiative! We encourage MSU community members to nominate high-impact Spartan educators (via our Thank an Educator form) regularly!
Read more about Hui-Ling’s perspectives below. #iteachmsu's questions are bolded below, followed by their responses!

You were recognized via the Thank an Educator Initiative. In one word, what does being an educator mean to you? 
Connection. 
Share with me what this word/quality looks like in your practice?
At the end of the day teaching is about sharing with each other, learning from one another and seeing ourselves in others. It is about creating a community willing to engage in content that helps us think deeply about the world around us. It is the willingness to be vulnerable, which as Brene Brown helped us understand, creates connection. 
Have your ideas on this changed over time? if so how?
I’ve taught in several communities that ranged in different age groups, racial backgrounds, socio economic status, religion, language, etc. I’ve learned that teaching is deeply relational, and one does not learn and grow in an environment where they don’t feel safe enough to take risks and thrive.
Tell me more about your educational “setting.” This can include, but not limited to departmental affiliations, community connections, co-instructors, and students. (Aka, where do you work?)
I am a Visiting English Education professor in the English Department. Most of my students plan on being secondary English teachers. It’s exciting and a great privilege to teach the next generation that will teach the next generation! :) I also include community members such as activists, artists, and young leaders to visit and co-teach my class. As a teacher educator, I want my students to know that they are not alone in their pursuit of educational equity and encourage them to build with others outside of their classrooms.
What is a challenge you experience in your educator role?
Throughout this pandemic many of my students have encountered personal challenges, such as loss, illness and maintaining their emotional and mental wellness. 
Any particular “solutions” or “best practices” you’ve found that help you support student success at the university despite/in the face of this?
I encourage my students to communicate with me when they need additional support. I also allow students to zoom in, as some are immunocompromised or want to protect the elderly and vulnerable who are in their close circle. I think this pandemic has taught me to be flexible and to remain as inclusive as possible for all my students.
What are practices you utilize that help you feel successful as an educator?
As much as possible, I try to maintain my own personal health and wellness. I practice self care so that I am in a place to show up for my students. I value communication, transparency and make an effort to create a classroom environment where everyone feels valued, safe and excited to participate! Also, I don’t lecture. It’s never been my style. As much as possible, I provide opportunities for students to teach each other and activities that are experiential and prime for reflection and connection.
What topics or ideas about teaching and learning would you like to see discussed on the iteach.msu.edu platform? Why do you think this conversation is needed at msu? 
I’m relatively new to MSU (I started as faculty in Fall 2020) and understand that there are so many incredible educators who are doing great work. Unfortunately, due to the nature of our work and the pandemic, I’ve been a bit isolated. I’d love for this page to showcase the work educators are doing to learn and connect with others across campus. 
I also know that there is so much going on in the world and see that it is important for us to engage in difficult but necessary conversations around race, identity, the political climate, etc. Perhaps there can be a space to showcase what conversations our classrooms are having and how they can be productive.
What are you looking forward to (or excited to be a part of) next semester?
I’m excited to keep learning from and building with my colleagues and students!

Don't forget to celebrate individuals you see making a difference in teaching, learning, or student success at MSU with #iteachmsu's Thank an Educator initiative. You might just see them appear in the next feature!

This week, we are featuring Alicia Jenner(she/her), one of the Center for Teaching and Learning Innovation's educational developers! Alicia was recognized via iteach.msu.edu's Thank and Educator Initiative! We encourage MSU community members to nominate high-impact Spartan educators (via our Thank an Educator initiative) regularly!Read more about Alicia’s perspectives below. #iteachmsu's questions are bolded below, followed by their responses!

You were recognized via the Thank an Educator Initiative. In one word, what does being an educator mean to you?EngagementWhat does this word/quality looks like in your practice? Have your ideas on this changed over time? If so how?​​Being an educator to me, means “engagement”. As I am classified as a Support Staff member at MSU, my role in a centralized unit has evolved over time. Many of us are seeking professional development opportunities and seeking alignment across campus. It’s critical for staff and faculty to come together to learn from each other and create a space where we can all find power in conversation and inquiry. Creating discussions and bringing perspectives to conversations has allowed me to expand my network and connect with colleagues in various positions across the university. I think sometimes we may not see ourselves as “educators” in the traditional sense (i.e., teaching, instruction, etc.), but we all have knowledge to share with the MSU community and beyond.Tell us more about your educational “setting.” This can include, but not limited to departmental affiliations, community connections, co-instructors, and students. What does being a part of CTLI mean to you?My educational setting includes several different non-traditional environments. I am a Senior Learning Experience Designer on the Online Program Management (OPM) team within the Center for Teaching and Learning Innovation (CTLI). My background as an instructional designer has provided me with experience in course consultations, training development, and online course development. While my role has evolved at MSU, where I am now supporting online programs centrally as the project lead for online.msu.edu and advocating for and speaking to the prospective student experience. Additionally, being a part of the CTLI means “engagement” to me. I have created opportunities to connect with online program directors or with staff who support online programs for monthly conversation, training, consultations, and initiatives. My role allows me to collaborate and coordinate as a liaison with external partners supporting student recruitment services and marketing and I have been an active collaborator for the MSU strategic planning initiative since summer 2020.Quick list:

Project lead for online.msu.edu with 90+ programs featured on the platform
Facilitator for Online Program Director monthly coffee hours
CTLI website developer
Manage online program management external partnerships

What is a challenge you experience in your educator role?I think a challenge for me and for those who are in a similar Support Staff role, we may feel as though we are not “educators” based on our classification at MSUAny particular “solutions” or “best practices” you’ve found that help you support student success at the university despite/in the face of this?Each of us have a critical role in supporting our university, whether that is in a service to student support or faculty, department support. Educators may struggle with managing their workload, changes in structures or systems, however, asking questions and reaching out to colleagues will demonstrate you are seeking assistance, guidance, mentorship, collaboration, etc. Stay proactive and follow your passions. What are practices you utilize that help you feel successful as an educator?There are several practices that I engage in to help me feel successful as an educator. I begin with setting clear goals to stay focused and motivated. In addition to setting clear goals, the most important practice I would say is to build relationships with stakeholders to understand their needs and interests. Lastly, staying up to date with the latest research and best practices. I often seek opportunities for professional development workshops, conferences, published research supporting adult learner data and market trends.What topics or ideas about teaching and learning would you like to see discussed on the iteach.msu.edu platform? Why do you think this conversation is needed at MSU?Building opportunities to bring people together to learn about educational pathways and lifelong learning would be an interesting topic to see discussed at the CTLI. What would/could this look like at our institution? Expanding access with non-credit micro-credentials that could be applied to credit programs across the university. What are you looking forward to (or excited to be a part of) next semester?This academic year I am excited about moving into a new space for the Center for Teaching and Learning Innovation. We have been in a temporary space since summer 2022 and I think building new routines and opportunities to engage in lifelong learning will generate new collaborations and conversations across campus.

Don't forget to celebrate individuals you see making a difference in teaching, learning, or student success at MSU with #iteachmsu's Thank an Educator initiative. You might just see them appear in the next feature!

All of this year's #iteachmsu Educator Award recipients will be receiving a certificate of achievement from Dr. Jeff Grabill, Associate Provost for Teaching, Learning, and Technology and Director of the Hub for Innovation in Learning and Technology. This certificate will also include the "Thank an Educator" story that was submitted for each recipient that resulted in their award recognition. A sample of this year's award is below. 
 
Additionally, Intermin Provost Teresa Sullivan shares her congratulations to each award recipient in a letter that each educator will also receive via email. The body of the letter reads as follows:
"Dear 2020 #iteachmsu Educator Award recipient,
 
Congratulations on being recognized as a recipient of this year’s #iteachmsu Educator Award. Your outstanding work supports Michigan State University’s teaching and learning missions and contributes to student success in a vital way.
 
For the 2019-2020 academic year, over seventy educators from across campus were nominated for this award for the positive impact their work has had on students and student learning. This year’s recipients represent a diverse community of educators from units across campus: information technology staff, academic advisors, librarians, faculty members, and learning designers. Each of you have stepped up in your role in ways that added value and inspired others.
 
I encourage you all to continue to grow in your practice and share your expertise with other educators in the MSU community. The #iteachmsu Commons and Thank an Educator Initiative aim to recognize and support the community of individuals who help MSU students succeed. If you haven’t already, please join the #iteachmsu Commons at iteach.msu.edu, so we can continue to celebrate the innovative contributions to teaching and learning that educators make on our campus throughout the year.
 
Again, congratulations and thank you for your ongoing efforts to make the MSU student experience the best it can be. Thanks also to the individuals who extended the care and took the time to recognize your contributions. This year’s award recipients work at the forefront of our commitment to undergraduate education, and I am grateful for your skills and dedication."
 
While we wish circumstances allowed us to host a reception in celebration of these educators, we hope that the sentiments from Dr. Sullivan and the certificate from Dr. Grabill help show how grateful MSU is to have educators like you!