Teaching & Mentorship

My goal in life is to change the face of academia by mentoring and exposing students from underrepresented groups to educational careers and opportunities that they might not have been aware of.  Mentorship has had a profound impact on my life. My middle school history teacher, Mr. Spielman, was an inspiration and a model. Our conversations outside of class stimulated my interest in the history of colonialism and subaltern resistance. They motivated me to learn more about how marginalized people used traditional strategies like ritual and song to critique and resist colonial domination. Our exchanges shaped my vision of what an engaged and inclusive pedagogy could be. I aim to provide similar opportunities for students to see themselves and their histories reflected in their education. Given my experiences, I am committed to making sure that I am accessible to students and that they feel comfortable enough in my classroom to express themselves and explore different ideas. Giving back is my way of showing appreciation for the sacrifices my family, mentors, and institutions have made to help me succeed. As my father always reminds me, true enrichment comes when your life can empower others. I can think of no more enriching career than that of an educator. 

​

In 2024, I received Excellence in Teaching in African and African Diaspora Studies from the African and African American Studies Research Center at the University of California, San Diego.