Presenter: Malika Rahman

Audience: Faculty, Staff

In-Person: Bonnell, BR-70

Learning Goals

Participants will learn:

• Recognize the intersection of trauma, personal adversity, and learning in student performance.
• Identify practical strategies for fostering inclusive, compassionate, and motivating learning environments. 
• Explore tools for effective student engagement and academic encouragement, particularly for students experiencing barriers. 
• Reflect on their role in promoting both academic excellence and personal resilience in students. 

Seminar Description

In today’s ever-changing educational climate, faculty are more than content experts—we are mentors, motivators, and a vital source of support for students navigating academic, personal, and emotional challenges. This interactive workshop, From Purpose to Possibility: Empowering Students to Excel through Education, is designed to equip faculty with practical tools and purposeful strategies to better understand our evolving role—and responsibility—in responding to the complex realities our students face.

From personal trauma and mental health concerns to financial strain and unequal access to learning resources, today’s students are up against more than just tough coursework. They’re navigating life. And when faculty are attuned to these challenges and committed to holistic, student-centered support, we don’t just teach—we transform. Let’s move beyond the lecture and lean into our purpose. Together, we’ll explore ways to strengthen student engagement, foster equity in the classroom, and create environments where students don’t just survive—they soar (and roar).