Academic Inclusion Acknowledgment

I acknowledge that academic spaces have historically centered certain voices while marginalizing or erasing others. Students from diverse backgrounds—including different races, ethnicities, socioeconomic circumstances, abilities, sexual orientations, religions, and life experiences—have often found their perspectives absent from curricula, undervalued in classroom discussions, or inadequately reflected in assessment methods.

This exclusion impoverishes our collective learning. Every student brings valuable knowledge and ways of understanding that enhance our academic community.

I am committed to actively working against these patterns by:

• Incorporating diverse authors, researchers, and perspectives in course materials
• Creating multiple pathways for students to demonstrate their learning
• Fostering classroom environments where different viewpoints are welcomed and explored
• Continuously examining my own teaching practices

I recognize that in today’s political climate, discussions about diverse experiences, equity, and inclusion are sometimes characterized as contentious or divisive. As a research psychologist who has studied social justice, equity, and the amplification or silencing of voices, I take this work seriously—not as political ideology, but as sound educational practice rooted in evidence.

In my classroom, all voices and experiences are valued equally. No one group is more valuable than another. We are all here to learn, to be challenged, to grow, and to develop empathy for those we may initially perceive as different from us. This includes recognizing that we can learn from everyone in our community, even those who share aspects of our cultural, economic, racial, ethnic, or other identity backgrounds. Our shared humanity connects us, while our diverse experiences enrich our collective understanding.

This work is ongoing, and I recognize I have much to learn. If you notice areas where I could better include diverse experiences or perspectives—whether in readings, discussions, assignments, or classroom dynamics—please reach out. Your insights help create a more inclusive learning environment for everyone.

You can contact me during office hours, via email, or through anonymous feedback. I view this feedback as essential to my growth as an educator and to our shared commitment to meaningful, inclusive education.