2018 Outstanding University Graduate Student Teaching Award Winner- Doctoral I

Lisa M. Dooley, M.A.

M.A. in English, Bradley University (2014)
Ph.D student and instructor, Department of English

Teaching Philosophy

As a teacher, my fundamental goal is to help students learn by providing the kind of supporting structure and dependable direction that allows them to flourish both as the individuals they are and in ways they never could have anticipated.

Regarding my teaching accomplishments, I am proudest about

The ways that my pedagogical commitments actualize into classroom practices. From conceptualizing a socially just means of assessment to interrogating the social constructs that reify normative hierarchies, and to utilizing a social justice framework to envision the content of my courses as well as the organization of my classroom, I support my students as they situate themselves in a responsible and
reflexive understanding and analysis of social justice.

Best compliment that I've received from a student was

The two best compliments that I have received from students were both written in end of the semester course evaluations: "Without this class I wouldn't be the student I am at the end of freshman year. This class will make you question who you are as a student and why you are here. I needed this class because it gave me the confidence to do what I love" (ENG 101 Student Spring 2016). "Be attentive and contribute! This class will change you if you let it" (ENG 249 Student Fall 2017).

Photo of Lisa Dooley — “I want to always remain a student as well as a teacher. Learning is a process that never ends. I firmly believe that when you stop learning alongside your students, you can no longer be an effective teacher.”