There is no doubt that college can be stressful and that burnout is real. So, what can we do about it? In this talk, neuroscientist and pedagogy researcher Mays Imad will dive into the science of bouncing back and reflect on how education systems might think about resilience. We'll talk about how we can create spaces where everyone, especially those who often feel left out, can grow and thrive. This talk is especially aimed at students who are interested in teaching and/or education, but all students are welcome.  Dr. Imad hopes that the talk will help participants understand what resilience really means in college life, learn how teaching that is tuned into different cultures can help students succeed, and pick up strategies to handle challenges and turn them into learning moments.

Dr. Mays Imad's academic journey began at the University of Michigan–Dearborn, where she pursued philosophy and minored in chemistry. She earned a doctoral degree in cellular & clinical neurobiology, with a minor in biomedical sciences, from Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit. After a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Arizona's Department of Neuroscience, she joined Pima Community College (PCC), teaching a variety of biology-related subjects. During her tenure at PCC, she founded their Teaching and Learning Center (TLC).

Currently an associate professor at Connecticut College, Dr. Imad is interested in understanding the social determinants of student wellbeing and success and conducts research on equity pedagogy. Her work reflects a deep commitment to equity and justice in and through education. With fervor, she advocates for institutions to pay close attention to intergenerational trauma and to prioritize healing and wellbeing. She is a Gardner Institute Fellow, AAC&U Senior STEM Fellow, and Mind and Life Institute Fellow.

Please RSVP via the link to Handshake.