This 2021 edition of our newsletter highlights the creative and impactful work of a handful of our SPPO department members. Even amidst this new normal that we have been experiencing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, our instructors have forged ahead to create meaningful new courses for our students and explore research that pushes the envelope.
Dr. Paloma Martinez-Cruz’s new G.E. course, “Taco Planet” forces us to reexamine the way that we produce and consume our food through the lens of a Latinx perspective. Brandon D’Souza, a 2021 graduate from SPPO, discusses how his time in the department shaped his perspective on research and interdisciplinary collaboration. He also discusses his undergraduate thesis, for which he was awarded second place in his category at the 26th Annual Denman Undergraduate Research Forum. Drs. Stephanie Aubry (SPPO) and Katherine Borland (Comparative Studies) share their history working in solidarity activism, a passion that inspired the creation of their new course: COMPSTD 4193 “Border Issues and Activism in Ohio.” The course introduces students to sites of immigration enforcement and immigrant rights activism throughout Ohio and partners with community leaders working in immigrant support and defense. Finally, Anthony Palmiscno is highlighted for his fascinating dissertation research on the cultural traditions, mythology, and politics surrounding La Rioja wine as well as his exemplary teaching practices within the classroom. His utilization of performance-based pedagogy and technology in his courses allowed him to continue his incredible instruction in remote and hybrid settings throughout the pandemic and reminds us of the importance of being a flexible educator in the classroom.
We hope you enjoy getting to know these brilliant members of the department in the latest installation of the SPPO newsletter. Their dedication to their students and constant curiosity in the pursuit of research continue to move our department forward and we are grateful for their continued efforts.
