Teaching & SU Experience
What I enjoy most about teaching and working at Southern University is the opportunity to connect with students from diverse backgrounds, each bringing unique perspectives that enrich our discussions. I appreciate how teaching allows me to spark curiosity and foster critical thinking. It’s incredibly fulfilling to witness students as they gain insights and apply concepts to real-life scenarios, particularly in fields like sociology, where understanding societal dynamics is so relevant. I appreciate the university’s commitment to diversity and its cultural heritage, which not only enriches our discussions but also prepares students to thrive in a global world that makes teaching not only rewarding but also continually inspiring.
My Southern University Moment”
As a first-generation immigrant in the United States, my most memorable experience embodying the Southern University spirit has been one of kindness and respect. My interactions with my department chairs, the late Dr. Robert Williams and my mentor, Dr. Alma Thornton, stand out in particular. Despite our cultural differences, they treated me with genuine enthusiasm and respect, inspiring me to become the person I am today. Their unwavering support motivated me to encourage both aspiring faculty and my colleagues at Southern University.
It was with this foundation of support and collaboration that I was honored to be elected as Faculty Senate President by colleagues from six colleges at the end of the 2024 spring semester. This vote of confidence from my colleagues demonstrates the strength we achieve when we come together as a unified group. Diversity is indeed our strength, especially under the guidance of leaders like Dr. Williams and Dr. Thornton, who champion inclusivity and fairness.
From a student perspective, there is nothing more gratifying than seeing former students return to campus to say thank you, or meeting them outside the university years later when they introduce themselves and share their successes.
While no community is free from conflict, including Southern University, I believe that well-managed conflict can drive positive change. As Karl Marx noted, “Conflict is inevitable in human society, and that conflict is needed for social change.” I am proud to call Southern University my home, and I am committed to working with all to foster and sustain our community