Engaged Pedagogy Faculty Working Group: Beta Cohort Builds a Culture of Care and Classroom Innovation

By Angela Kariotis

At Brookdale Community College, teaching is more than content delivery—it’s a practice of connection, creativity, and care. This year’s Engaged Pedagogy Faculty Working Group, supported by the Office of the Provost and produced by the Whyman Center for Transformative Learning, brought together a passionate Beta Cohort of faculty committed to transforming their classrooms, their connection to their workplace and their pedagogy. The beta cohort welcomed Elisa Elorza, the CVA gallery manager, Georgia Cassidy of Nursing, Alex Idavoy from Languages, Donna Pope from English, Raj Wesley from Psychology and Psychology chair Sara Burrill.

Meeting weekly throughout the fall semester, the group focused on operationalizing tools for a more responsive classroom. Topics ranged from cooperative learning to poverty-informed practice, inclusive pedagogy, and the pedagogy of play. Through case studies, peer feedback, and mentorship from the inaugural Alpha Cohort, faculty explored ways to create responsive classroom spaces for all students—regardless of discipline.

“This wasn’t just theory—it was practical, and immediately useful,” said one participant. “We walked away each week with a dozen things we could try in our classrooms—and they actually work.”

Participants practiced disciplined techniques like “wait time,” collected weekly anonymous feedback from students, created inclusive ways to participate to support introverts, and celebrated student successes across varied and academic lines. Faculty shared the impact:
“It showed me the blind spots I didn’t know I had—like how students may feel excluded because of holidays or names I was mispronouncing.” -Christine Greco Covington, Psychology

“I started designing activities that students could do regardless of whether they’d done the homework. Everyone could contribute meaningfully.” -Donna Pope, English

“We’re not therapists, but we can support students by creating classroom environments that understand their real lives.” -Alex Idavoy, Languages

In the midst of challenges to higher education, this group was a space of renewal and purpose. “The camaraderie, the laughter, the real talk—it reminded me why I teach,” several participants echoed.

“This was not just another committee. You actually look forward to coming here.” – Georgia Cassidy, Nursing
Dr. Shawn Ginwright’s framework of healing-centered education anchors the group’s ethos. One of the four tenants→ Taking care of the caretaker.

And this is just the beginning. The fellowship continued in the spring with case studies, interdisciplinary collaboration, and preparing for presentations for Scholar’s Day. Faculty will keep practicing new tools in the skills lab and build toward shared projects that extend beyond the group itself.

If you’re wondering whether to join next year, here’s what this year’s cohort has to say:
“Do it. It’s well worth your time. It will make you a better—and happier teacher.” -Christine Greco Covington, Psychology
“This group felt like an education psychology class we never got. We left each session energized and inspired.” -AIex Idavoy, Languages
“It’s about being brave enough to ask questions and care deeply about your students—and yourself.” -The beta cohort

The application for the next cohort is available.
Apply here for 2025-2026

For more information, connect with Faculty Fellow Christine Greco-Covington, any one of the past members or attend their Scholar’s Day session on May 16, 2025 and ask your questions.

Be part of a creative, critical, and caring community of educators who believe teaching can—and should—change lives—including their own.