University Teaching Initiative Award

Byron Craig, Ph.D.

• Assistant Professor in the School of Communication at Illinois State University.
• He earned his Ph.D. from Indiana University Bloomington in May 2013 Position

My motivation to become a college professor comes from…

My parent’s inability to attend college and their desire to ensure their children had the opportunities to be in the classroom and learn beyond what we knew in our little town.

The three most valuable or important methods/approaches/attitudes/etc. that I bring to my teaching practice are …

• Encouragement
• Demanding each of us to do and be better
• Serving humankind

The resource or person that has been the most important influence in my teaching career is … (and why)

Dr. Christine King Farris (the late sister of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.). When I was a freshman at the esteemed HBCU Morehouse College in Atlanta, Ga., she was my very first professor. Her love of teaching and her elaborate style and joy in the classroom continues to inspire me. She was able to impart knowledge and wisdom with a great deal of joy that made her students want to learn.

The most rewarding aspect of teaching for me is … (and why)

When a student has their "ah ha" moment, whether that is in the semester or after the semester has ended.

For me, the least favorite part of teaching is … (and why)

Saying goodbye to students at the end of the semester. I always worry that what we have studied will not remain a part of their everyday.

The most challenging aspect of teaching for me is … (and what I do about it)

I always have issues staying organized. I have to sit with this knowledge about myself, own it, find ways for self-care, and then re-engage in a way that brings me back to the realization that I have to re-evaluate and re-organize without beating up on myself.

Best compliment that I’ve received from a student was …

I create an environment where students want to come to class and discuss the materials for each class.

The one teaching technique or strategy that I would recommend to my colleagues to enhance student learning the most is …

Bring to the classroom your joy, your heart, your spirit, and your wisdom. Perform your civic engagement for them but also don't be afraid to show your vulnerable side to them. Students need to see you are human, but also respect your joy.

“I believe in meeting students where they are and giving them the tools to grow beyond their expectations and wildest dreams!”