As a Distinguished Professor at the University of Utah, I am deeply committed to fostering a student-effective approach to learning, especially when addressing complex and sensitive topics such as systemic racism, mental health, and social justice. My teaching philosophy is grounded in creating protected spaces for learning, environments that prioritize psychological safety without shying away from the difficult conversations essential for addressing society’s most enduring challenges. Unlike so-called “safe spaces,” which can sometimes inhibit critical discourse, protected spaces ensure students feel secure in their identities while engaging rigorously with challenging material.

Drawing on my interdisciplinary expertise in education, sociology, psychiatry, and ethnic studies, I design courses that integrate theoretical rigor with practical application. My research on Racial Battle Fatigue informs much of my teaching, providing students with a nuanced understanding of how systemic inequalities manifest in daily life and affect mental and physical well-being. Through structured discussions, case studies, and experiential learning opportunities, I encourage students to critically analyze these issues, develop resilience, and apply their insights to real-world contexts.

I also emphasize mentorship as a cornerstone of my teaching practice. Honored with the Spencer Foundation’s Mentor Award and the University of Utah’s Distinguished Graduate & Postdoctoral Scholar Mentor Award, I take pride in guiding students and early-career scholars through their academic and professional journeys. My mentoring approach focuses on cultivating intellectual curiosity, fostering a sense of agency, and equipping students with the tools to become transformative leaders in their fields.

Ultimately, my goal is to prepare students to understand complex social issues and confront and dismantle the structures that perpetuate them. By engaging with difficult truths in a protected learning environment, my students learn to contribute meaningfully to creating a more equitable and just society.