I am dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning community through my teaching, research, and service. I believe diversity is essential to the creative process, enabling students to expand their understanding of storytelling and filmmaking.

While teaching at ISSOS, I worked with students from over 86 different countries, which taught me the importance of creating an inclusive classroom. I adapted my teaching methods to connect with students from diverse backgrounds, encouraging them to integrate their personal experiences into their film projects. This approach allowed students to share their unique perspectives while learning from their peers' diverse cultural stories.

My research also focuses on elevating underrepresented voices. A key project involved working with documentary filmmaker Cathleen Ashworth and the Iroquois nation to produce a multimedia film depicting their creation story. This project highlighted how film can be used to preserve and honor indigenous cultures while providing me with insight into the importance of accurately representing marginalized voices. This work continues to inform my teaching approach, where I emphasize inclusive storytelling.

In my thesis film, Her Eyes, I advocate for support and awareness of Alzheimer’s patients and their families. By exploring the emotional impacts of the disease, the film raises empathy and promotes understanding for those affected. Through this project, I aim to demonstrate the potential of film to create social change and bring attention to vulnerable communities, showing students how their work can make a real-world impact.

Through my teaching, research, and service, I am committed to building an inclusive learning community where students from all backgrounds are empowered to share their stories. By celebrating diversity in all forms, I aim to help students find their unique voices and contribute to a more inclusive film industry.