Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher for two primary reasons. 1. Fostering a curious and intellectual generation of people. I believe our world needs more competence and critical thinking skills. In a world of AI, propaganda, disinformation, and anti-intellectualism, this is essential in my eyes. 2. I love leading students on their academic journey and learning with them. Lifelong learning is the key to a better future for us all. I want to be part of this change.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

A student came into my office crying one day because they were failing their other courses. I comforted them by showing them my undergraduate transcript where I had failed a college course early on. I told them this grade could be the best thing that ever happened to them if they use it as fuel to motivate success for the rest of their life - and that failure is the most potent learning tool. Beyond that, I have memories of office hours helping students 1 on 1 that made observable differences.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Donate to the community college to launch a mental health initiative as our students are disproportionately food insecure and suffer from anxiety and depressive symptoms. All amplified by the stress of work, college, and kids in a time of unprecedented instability from the current federal government.