Authored/Posted by: Cara Mack
Introducing “Educators of Impact,” a profile series that celebrates the remarkable faculty and staff at the Center for Teaching and Learning Innovation at Michigan State University. This series will highlight the achievements and contributions of our dedicated team members who are passionate about the advancement of education. Through their stories, you’ll gain insight into the innovative projects and teaching practices shaping the future of learning at MSU. Each profile will showcase their unique contributions, highlighting the passion and expertise that make our center a beacon of excellence and collaboration. Join us in recognizing and celebrating their impactful work.
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In the tapestry of educational excellence at Michigan State University, Dr. Bethany Meadows (she/they) stands out as a vibrant thread, weaving together the principles of inclusivity and accessibility in education. As the Inclusive Pedagogy Specialist at the Center for Teaching and Learning Innovation [CTLI], Bethany brings a unique perspective shaped by a diverse academic background and a passionate commitment to creating equitable learning environments.
Bethany’s educational journey is as multifaceted as her current role. Beginning at Ashland University, she earned dual degrees: a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Bachelor of Science in Education in Integrated Language Arts Education. This interdisciplinary foundation laid the groundwork for her burgeoning interest in inclusive pedagogy. Seeking to deepen their understanding of language and communication in educational settings, Bethany pursued a Master of Arts in Rhetoric and Composition from Ball State University. This program equipped her with both theoretical knowledge and practical tools, enhancing her ability to engage with the complexities of language in an educational setting.
The culmination of Bethany’s formal education came with their doctorate in Writing and Rhetoric from Michigan State University, complemented by a graduate specialization in Women’s and Gender Studies. This combination of disciplines reflects Bethany’s approach to education, recognizing the intersectionality of identity, language, and learning. Their doctoral work not only honed their research skills but also deepened their understanding of how gender and other aspects of identity influence educational experiences and outcomes.
Bethany’s undergraduate academic journey, which spanned five majors, is a testament to their intellectual curiosity and interdisciplinary mindset. This diverse academic background has proved invaluable in their current role, allowing them to approach inclusive pedagogy from multiple angles and connect with educators and students across various disciplines.
Transitioning from the intimate setting of a small liberal arts college to the vast expanse of a Big Ten land-grant university such as MSU, Bethany gained invaluable insights into the nuances of educational environments. Particularly in terms of funding, resources, and the unique challenges that each presents. This experience has undoubtedly enriched their understanding of the complexities inherent in fostering an inclusive learning experience, allowing them to navigate these landscapes with a well-rounded perspective.
One of the key observations Bethany made during this transition was the tendency for large universities like MSU to inadvertently silo people into different fields due to their size, potentially hindering interdisciplinary collaboration. Recognizing this challenge, Bethany has made it a central part of their mission at CTLI to bridge these divides, fostering cross-disciplinary dialogue and collaboration in pursuit of more inclusive and accessible education.
In her current role at CTLI, Bethany’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in every aspect of her work. She collaborates closely with various campus partners to ensure compliance with the Department of Justice’s accessibility guidelines, but her vision extends far beyond more compliance. Bethany sees accessibility as a cornerstone of effective education, working diligently to embed these principles into the fabric of MSU’s teaching and learning practices. They not only implement best practices in inclusive pedagogy but also challenge others to rethink their approaches to teaching and learning.
What truly sets Bethany apart is their unwavering passion for their work and their ability to articulate complex ideas with clarity and conviction. Whether leading a workshop on inclusive teaching practices, consulting with faculty on curriculum design, or advocating for policy changes to support diverse learners, Bethany brings energy and empathy to every interaction. Her driven nature and visible commitment to inclusivity make her a valuable addition to the CTLI team and broader MSU community.