I love puzzles. My liberal arts education nurtured my passion and ability to solve puzzles in multiple contexts while being fully immersed in campus life. I sang in three groups, led a service fraternity, and coordinated the Orientation Program. After I graduated, I studied psychological science as an international student in Toronto, where I received excellent scientific training and the opportunity to teach. At CCSU, I apply my love for puzzles to both research and teaching. I find it deeply gratifying to teach first-generation students like me because my undergraduate experience has been foundational to my long-term success. I have scratched my itch for student development by becoming chapter advisor for Psi Chi, starting a peer tutoring program, and supporting numerous students in their independent research.My favorite course to teach is Research Methods. Why? Because students stretch, transform, and grow as in no other class. My philosophy of values-based education extends to my research examining how growth mindset, character strengths, and developing purpose and sense of belonging help students succeed. I’ve written a book about writing up quantitative research in the behavioral sciences, journal articles on writing and best practices for mentoring undergraduate research, and blog posts on student success. Recently, I have also tackled administrative puzzles. I served on the Board of Directors for Psi Chi as Eastern Regional VP and currently serve on the BOD of the Eastern Psychological Association. I have helped faculty further explore and improve their educational practice through our Center for Teaching and Faculty Development. As Associate Vice-President of Academic Affairs, I applied data analytic skills to identify instructional efficiencies and managed a budget of approximately $72M. I learned how to help faculty strengthen academic programs through program review and curricular innovation. I actively seek opportunities to solve challenging, impactful, and personally meaningful puzzles. As Interim Chair of Theatre, I support my colleagues’ passion for producing works that they find creatively and professionally meaningful, advocate for sustainable resourcing and processes, and help develop and maintain healthy and nourishing relationships. I embrace a values-based leadership model built on empathy, trust, and productive conflict. I collaborate with colleagues to develop shared outcomes that advance our just cause. I identify and assess solutions through continuous discovery. And I still sing.