Speaking
Exploring communication, pedagogy, rhetoric, and engagement within modern education.
My speaking and research interests center on higher education, communication, rhetoric, digital pedagogy, student engagement, and the evolving relationship between technology and learning. Through conference presentations and scholarly work, I explore how instructional practices, communication strategies, and faculty perspectives influence student experiences within online and contemporary educational environments.
Rewriting the Script: Shifting Faculty Mental Models to Empower Engagement and Equity in the Digital Classroom
Featured Presentation
Rewriting the Script: Shifting Faculty Mental Models to Empower Engagement and Equity in the Digital Classroom
University of Arizona Global Campus Conference
This presentation examined the influence of faculty mental models on student engagement, communication, instructional practices, and equity within online higher education environments. Grounded in systems thinking and educational research, the presentation explored how deeply embedded assumptions about teaching, learning, communication, and student capability shape classroom experiences within digital spaces.
The discussion emphasized the importance of reflective teaching practices, inclusive communication, adaptability, and intentional engagement strategies in online education. Particular attention was given to the ways technology, generational communication differences, and evolving student needs continue reshaping instructional environments across higher education. The presentation also explored the ethical integration of digital tools and artificial intelligence while reinforcing the importance of maintaining authentic learning experiences and meaningful instructor presence.
This research reflects my broader scholarly interest in rhetoric, communication, digital pedagogy, and equitable learning practices within modern educational systems.
Areas of Speaking & Research Interest
Digital Pedagogy & Online Learning
Faculty Mental Models in Higher Education
Rhetoric & Persuasive Communication
Student Engagement Strategies
Communication Across Generations
AI & Ethics in Education
Equity in Online Learning Spaces
Writing Instruction & Digital Communication
Storytelling, Language, & Cultural Influence
Teaching in the Digital Classroom
Much of my instructional experience has taken place within online higher education environments, where communication, engagement, and accessibility become central to the learning experience. Digital classrooms require intentional course design and instructional strategies that encourage students to remain active participants in discussion, analysis, research, and collaboration rather than passive recipients of information. My work in online learning spaces focuses heavily on maintaining intellectual engagement while also recognizing the diverse academic, personal, and professional demands students often navigate outside of the classroom.
My instructional approach incorporates discussion-driven learning, multimedia integration, rhetorical analysis, written reflection, and interactive communication practices that encourage students to think critically while strengthening their academic voices. I regularly utilize platforms such as Canvas, Blackboard, Brightspace, Microsoft Teams, and other educational technologies to support organization, accessibility, communication, and student feedback. I am also particularly interested in conversations surrounding artificial intelligence, digital literacy, and ethical writing practices as technology continues reshaping modern education and communication.
At its best, online education creates opportunities for flexibility, accessibility, and expanded intellectual engagement across geographic and cultural boundaries. My goal within digital classrooms is to create environments where students feel intellectually supported, academically challenged, and encouraged to approach communication as both a practical skill and a meaningful form of influence.