Teaching

Teaching Philosophy

I co-create communities of learners that connect my classes, our department, and the broader world — built on "low floors, high ceilings, and wide walls," so every student can enter, every student can stretch, and every student has multiple ways in. I see classrooms as communities of practice that embody the worlds we hope to build.

My students redesign real intake and assessment forms at their internships (which get adopted by real agencies), run full community-based program evaluations for local nonprofits, and present research at national conferences — often as co-authors.

Since there is no teaching without learning, my courses center student agency, active and experiential learning, and real-world application.

Current Courses (Augsburg University)

• SWK 500 — Human Behavior in the Social Environment
• SWK 530 — Generalist Integrated Field Seminar 1
• SWK 535 — Generalist Integrated Field Seminar 2
• SWK 401 — Social Work Research and Evaluation

Previous Courses

• YOST 3032/5032 — Adolescent and Youth Development for Youthworkers
• GRAD 8200 — Multicultural Inclusive Learning and Teaching
• PA 1961W / EdPA 1301W — Personal Leadership in the University
• PA 3961 / OLPD 3302 — Leadership, You, and Your Community
• PA 3971 / OLPD 3306 — Leadership Minor: Field Experience
• YoST 4315/5314 — Youthwork in Schools
• GRAD 8101 — Teaching in Higher Education (Teaching Intern)

Recognition

NASW-Minnesota Tony Bibus Social Work Faculty of the Year (2026) and Augsburg's Early Career Distinguished Teaching Award (2026), both earned through nomination by colleagues and students.