11/02/2024
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04/04/2024
Sonora, CA – February 20, 2024 – Columbia College proudly announces its first Teaching & Learning Summit on February 29 and March 1, 2024, featuring renowned learning specialist, educator, and author Dr. Saundra McGuire. Dr. McGuire will lead sessions aimed at transforming learning and teaching methods to bolster student success. We invite students, educators, partner colleges and community members to join us for this exciting event.
Dr. Saundra Yancy McGuire brings a wealth of expertise as Professor Emerita of Chemistry, Director Emerita of the Center for Academic Success, and retired Assistant Vice Chancellor at Louisiana State University (LSU). Prior to her tenure at LSU, Dr. McGuire spent eleven years at Cornell University, where she garnered the coveted Clark Distinguished Teaching Award. Her many accolades include the 2007 US Presidential Award for Excellence in Mentoring, and with engagements spanning over 400 institutions in 46 states and ten countries, Dr. McGuire's impact on learning and teaching practices is profound.
Dr. McGuire’s best-selling books, "Teach Students How to Learn" and "Teach Yourself How to Learn," have become essential resources for students and educators at Columbia College. Lindsay Laney, Coordinator of the Academic Achievement Center, notes, "Dr. McGuire's work has been instrumental in how I train our peer tutors. I can't wait to learn more strategies to improve student metacognition, study skills, and motivation. More importantly, I can't wait for students to learn from her!"
The Teaching & Learning Summit, funded by the Culturally Responsive Pedagogy Grant, offers a unique opportunity to engage with Dr. McGuire and her transformative ideas. Kirsten Miller, Co-Chair of the Columbia College professional development committee, expresses excitement about the event. "We're thrilled to offer different sessions with something for everyone – educators, students, and peer tutors – so everyone can apply these empowering strategies directly into their roles” she says. "Being able to offer this summit free of charge is a testament to our commitment of fostering excellence in teaching and learning across our community."
The summit will kick off on Thursday, February 29, focused on providing students with invaluable insights and tools to enhance their learning journey. Everyone is welcome at one or both of the two engaging sessions held at 4:30-5:45pm and 6:15-7:45pm, with free dinner offered in between.
On Friday, March 1, the summit will continue with two specialized tracks from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM. The first track, designed for educators, is focused on practical strategies to elevate teaching methods to boost student learning and motivation. The second track is for peer mentors and tutors, who will engage in developing effective tutoring, mentoring and coaching strategies.
The Teaching & Learning Summit promises an enriching experience for all attendees. The event is free but registration is requested, as space is limited. Find details and registration link on the Columbia College Teaching, Learning and Community (TLC) website: www.gocolumbia.edu/tlc.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact: Kirsten Miller at millerk@yosemite.edu or 209-588-2155.
About Columbia College: Columbia College, located in Sonora, California, is a vibrant educational institution dedicated to fostering academic excellence, personal growth, and community engagement. With a commitment to innovation and inclusivity, Columbia College prepares students for success in a rapidly evolving world.