Departments Archives - College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences

Celebrating the Achievements of CEHHS Faculty

May 6, 2025 by Douglas Edlund

Celebrating the Achievements of CEHHS Faculty

The College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences (CEHHS) is proud to recognize several faculty members for their outstanding achievements and contributions. Let’s celebrate their success!

Karen Boyd (ELPS)

Boyd received the prestigious Raymond H. Goldstone Legacy of Excellence Award from the Association for Student Conduct Administration. With a long history of impactful leadership in student conduct and higher education, Boyd’s contributions continue to inspire and shape the field. Read more about this esteemed acknowledgement.

Leia Cain (ELPS)
Cain received the Tammy K. Renalds LGBT+ Communities Advocate Award at the Chancellor’s Honors Banquet in April. She collaborates with campus partners to develop inclusive initiatives that support the success and well-being of LGBTQIA+ students, faculty, and staff within higher education.

Mary Dueñas (ELPS)

Dueñas is the inaugural recipient of the Outstanding Doctoral Mentoring Award, to be presented at the Doctoral Hooding Ceremony on May 15. She was nominated by mentee Abraham Cervantes, who shared,
“Without her encouragement and affirmation, I am certain I would not be here today. Dr. Dueñas’s mentorship has been a lifeline—guiding me through moments of self-doubt and helping me see the importance of my voice, my story, and my place in this field. Because of her, I am not just surviving in this program; I am thriving. She has given me a vision for my future that I never thought possible, and for that, I am eternally thankful.”

Lauren Irwin (ELPS)

Irwin was named as a recipient of the Annuit Coeptis Emerging Professionals Award at the College Student Educators International (ACPA) conference in Long Beach, California, earlier this year. This prestigious award honors exemplary educators in the early stages of their careers. Irwin was one of five early-career professionals recognized for their contributions to the field.

Robert Kelchen (ELPS)

Kelchen was recognized for Research and Creative Achievement at the recent Academic Honors Banquet hosted by the Office of the Provost. Earlier this year, Education Week once again named him a Top Scholar Influencer. He also serves as associate editor of Research in Higher Education, data editor for Washington Monthly magazine’s college guide and rankings, and was the 2023 recipient of the Excellence in Public Policy in Higher Education Award from the Association for the Study of Higher Education’s Council on Public Policy.

Lyndsey Hornbuckle (KRSS)

Hornbuckle was honored with the “Heart and Soul Award” at the final Faculty Senate meeting of the academic year, recognizing her compassion, service, and collaborative leadership. A dedicated mentor, she is known for her unwavering commitment to student success. For the past two years, she has served as a faculty fellow in the Office of Community Engagement and Outreach, helping to advance equity, respect, and community care across the greater Knoxville area.

Youn-Kyung (Lydia) Kim (RHTM)

Kim is ranked #2 at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, among top researchers in Business and Management, according to Research.com. Nationally, she is ranked #441 among her peers in the United States. Learn more about Kim’s exceptional research and scholarly work.

Junehee Kwon (RHTM)

In May, Kwon received the 2025 Pauly Award from the Greater Knoxville Hospitality Association, being honored as Industry Educator of the Year. This recognition follows a series of milestones for RHTM, including HTM program accreditation and the department’s first “Blissful Wish Wedding.” Additionally, students Kylie Nayakwadi and Grace Keffer were awarded scholarships from the association.

Joshua Rosenberg (TPTE)

Rosenberg has been named the Haslam Endowed Professor in recognition of his outstanding accomplishments in educational data science research and program development. He has an exceptional record of research publications and has secured over $10 million in research funding. Rosenberg initiated data science programs and led the hiring of a cluster of faculty to support and expand the initiative. The five-year professorship includes an endowment to support his ongoing work. Learn more about Rosenberg’s groundbreaking research in data science.

Michael Skyer (TPTE)

Skyer has been awarded the Dr. Jon Henner Memorial Early Career Award by the Association of College Educators–Deaf & Hard of Hearing, recognizing his impactful teaching and research just a few years into his career. Since joining UT in 2022, Skyer has published over 25 works, mentored doctoral students, and led groundbreaking work in Deaf aesthetics—a design philosophy that reimagines education for Deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing learners with equity at the center. Learn more about his work and impact in an article by CEHHS Student Reporter, Carly Utterback.

Michael Skyer Awarded with the Dr. Jon Henner Memorial Early Career Award by the Association of College Educators – Deaf & Hard of Hearing

April 28, 2025 by Douglas Edlund

Michael Skyer Awarded with the Dr. Jon Henner Memorial Early Career Award by the Association of College Educators – Deaf & Hard of Hearing

By Carly Utterback, CEHHS Student Reporter, Class of 2025

Our very own Michael Skyer, assistant professor of deaf studies and deaf education in the department of Theory & Practice in Teacher Education (TPTE), has received an award for showing an early record of a promising career in both teaching and research in deaf education within five years of obtaining his doctoral degree.

He has been with UT since August 2022 after graduating from the University of Rochester in 2021 with a Doctor of Philosophy degree. He has had over 25 publications listed on Google Scholar since then. His contributions to the TPTE/Deaf Studies team have been recognized by this award.

The Association of College Educators – Deaf & Hard of Hearing (ACE-DHH) presented this award to Skyer at their annual conference in Washington, DC on Feb. 1, 2025.

Skyer says that Henner taught him a lot about writing with clarity and expression.

“That is one of the most important things that I’ve taken away from my friendship and collegial working relationship with Jon. Because this is not just an award, but a named early career

Michael Skyer

award, I want to recognize and uplift Jon’s legacy in our research field. May he forever rest in power,” said Skyer.

He said also expressed his gratitude toward the ACE-DHH awards committee, for their commitment and nomination. His colleagues, national and international, such as his research mentors and even graduate students sent in letters of support to the directors.

“This award is a recognition by my colleagues of my abilities. This signifies their endorsement of my research agenda primarily, but also their support of me as a person whose ideas matter,” said Skyer.

The Dr. Jon Henner Memorial Early Career Award by ACE-DHH is an incredible accomplishment and testament to the hard work Skyer is putting into his research.

The design of teaching methods has made an appearance in Skyer’s previous publications. In Applied deaf aesthetics towards transforming deaf higher education Skyer focused on the changes that need to be made in classrooms to benefit those who are deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing.

This design is called “deaf aesthetics,” which creates a more compatible learning experience created specifically for those who are deaf, deaf-blind or hard of hearing. Deaf aesthetics also happens to be more accessible for non-deaf students. Skyer’s work is intended to benefit marginalized deaf learners understand curricula in an equitable manner.

The University of Tennessee has started adapting these designs and Skyer is leading the charge.

“I believe this is one of the most important aspects of how we approach thinking and action within deaf higher education contexts,” said Skyer.

He said it is not enough to just talk about ethics and equity but to embody them physically and conceptually. The development of curricular frameworks and day to day materialization of these aesthetics is a tangible change towards his approach. The conceptual side is building paths away from audism and ableism in all aspects of education.

Skyer oversees a research team consisting of four other faculty including the director of the Council on Education of the Deaf and former masters/doctoral committee advisors. They are working to formalize their approach towards the integration of deaf aesthetics.

This year Skyer said he is most excited about enriching his working relationships both national and international. He is also excited to continue to develop “the empirical arm of [his] study about queerness in deaf communities.”

Since August of 2022, he has brought in one PhD student and has become the dissertation chair for three of UT’s doctoral students. He is also a member of two other dissertation committees at UT as well as two outside of UT. Skyer says most of his doctoral students are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (DHH), queer, or disabled like himself.

As of right now Skyer has a book under contract on Vygotskian deaf pedagogy theory in addition to four other working book proposals. He recently had a poster session with American Educational Research Association (AERA) where he presented about curriculum and deaf education.

His favorite topics of research are the ethical, cognitive, and sociopolitical aspects of art and design in teaching. “This is the wellspring I shall drink from all my life,” said Skyer.

Throughout his own learning career many mentors supported him in pursuit of a doctorate degree. But his strive for higher education came from his mom more than anything. She is a deaf woman with several advanced learning degrees and was a college instructor and counselor for 40 years.

He shared a memory from childhood of him thinking, “That is the peak… that’s the pinnacle… that’s the goal—become a college or university instructor.”

Skyer remarked that his experience at UT has been “tremendous” and that his is “dedicated to supporting an approach to resolving the deep problems of deaf education, that is equally pragmatic and critical. UT gives me wings and space to fly.”

The Power of Sports for Positive Change

March 19, 2025 by Douglas Edlund

The Power of Sports for Positive Change

By Jett Hatfield, Senior in Sport Management, Class of 2025

“It’s more than just a game.” “There is more to sports than just what you see on tv.” These are phrases I am sure all of us have heard. When I was younger, I heard these sayings, but I didn’t know entirely what they meant. I had athletes I looked up to and knew sports taught things like teamwork and instilled some good values into people, but I didn’t think too much about the bigger aspect of sports. I didn’t know how much it could affect people, especially people who grew up in different places and didn’t have the resources to watch and play sports as I did. However, as I grew older and started working in sports, my eyes were opened to how much sports really means to people. It wasn’t until I participated in ‘Football for Change’ in Los Cabos, Mexico, with my internship, A.B.C. Sports Foundation, and the San Francisco 49ers that I realized the full extent of the power of sports.

The purpose of this trip was to work with the San Francisco 49ers and their players to create a positive impact in the local community. The day after everyone arrived, we began to implement this purpose. We started with a school visit at José Lucas Manríquez Arípez Elementary School and Los Niños del Capitán (community center) where the impact could be seen immediately. As soon as the kids saw the likes of George Kittle, Ricky Persall, and other 49ers Players, the kids’ faces lit up like it was Christmas morning. They were jumping into their arms, and there is simply no other way to describe it other than they were filled with immense joy. The kids got to talk and interact with the players, and then we got to reveal to them and the rest of the school exactly how we were helping. Thanks to all our partners and sponsors, we were able to donate over $15,000 to help repair the school’s fencing, add on to playground structures, as well as donate footballs and flags for the school to use. Overall, the day was filled with tons of smiles, and it felt amazing to be a part of something so great.

San Francisco 49ers Tight End, George Kittle, Greets Students

The following day was filled with another school visit and a football camp. There were once again screams of happiness and cheer as they saw some of their favorite players from their favorite team walk into where they go to school every day. This time, however, we were the ones that were in store for a surprise. The school’s football team, band, and cheer team put on a pep rally-type performance where they celebrated the 49ers coming to their school. They had choreographed dances and chants, and it was obvious that so much time and effort went into the school’s performance. It showed just how special and meaningful it was for the 49ers players to spend their time there. We were able to continue making a difference by donating a check and football equipment to this school as well. Later in the day, I got to finally meet someone from the tourism board who we had been working with for months to plan these school visits. She told our team and me that no one ever thinks about the schools when they come to Los Cabos. Los Cabos is a top vacation destination, but even when people come there for a cause, the schools are normally left out. This made everything we were doing feel even more special because we were planting a seed in a place that needed it!

Right after this school visit, we hosted our first football camp of the trip which hosted high school-aged boys and girls that play tackle football. When the players got out of the vans to walk onto the field, it was once again like The Beatles had pulled up to one of their shows. The kids were immediately going up to the players to meet them, but the local coaches were running up even faster! This just goes to show that sports impact all ages. From high school-aged kids to grown adults, the fact that they got to play or coach the sport they love with an NFL team and its stars was like a dream come true to both the kids and coaches. Kids were catching passes from star QB Brock Purdy, linemen were learning how to block from all-pro Trent Williams, and everyone was getting to learn from the best of the best. The 49ers couldn’t have been better this day. They were engaged the whole day, hyping the kids up, celebrating with them after they caught a pass, and they made the kids feel like the stars. It made the kids feel equal. It gave them hope that they could be in the same spot as a Brock Purdy or George Kittle someday. The impact was real, and it was probably a reality that most of those kids never thought they would have the opportunity to be a part of.

On the last day of the trip, we had our last big football camp. This was our biggest event out of them all. It was open for the public to watch, and there were hundreds of people there decked out in 49ers gear to see and check out the 49ers at work. At this camp, we had a tackle football group as well as a flag football group, with half of the campers being girls. Growing the game of football to flag and making it available to not just boys but also girls was a big point of emphasis for this trip. We wanted to show that football is for everyone, and that was done at this camp. Over the course of 4 hours, the campers got t-shirts, autographs and pictures with the 49ers players, and of course, got to learn more about the game they love from 49ers players. To try to put into perspective how excited people were about this camp, I had dozens of people, whether it be people working security, to parents in the stands, etc. come up to me and try to get the campers’ shirts. The shirts had ‘Football for Change’ written and all of the 49er’s attendees’ names on them. People just wanted to say they got to witness this event and show that they were there. It was a big deal to everyone; they knew it was something special, and they wanted to brag to their friends and families that they got to be there. The 49ers were once again so intentional and knew their significance at this camp. They didn’t hesitate to take pictures with the campers and fans and were engaged the whole way through to put a smile on everyone’s face.

Overall, the first ‘Football for Change’ in Los Cabos, Mexico, was exactly what the name was. We used football to create positive change. I probably saw more smiles that one week than I had the whole rest of the year so far. Sports really do create change. They create happiness. They create hope. They create a sense of community. They create a sense of togetherness. They create a positive outlet for kids to relieve stress, learn about life values, and, most importantly, have fun. I might have heard these impacts of sports and even experienced some of these things. However, I didn’t know these things as I know them now until I saw them from a new perspective on this trip. It just goes to show how special sports can be when people come together to initiate change. It is up to not only the athletes, but workers of the sports industry, and even fans of sports to come together to create change and show the true power of sports.

Jett Hatfield is a senior majoring Sport Management in Kinesiology, Recreation, and Sport Studies with a minor in Business Administration. This trip was through his internship with the A.B.C. Sports Foundation. Jett is slated to graduate in May.

Pep Rally and High School Visit in Los Cabos, Mexico

Visiting Recreation Center in Los Cabos, Mexico

School Visit with Members of A.B.C. Sports Foundation and San Francisco 49ers

UT Students’ Experience at Tennessee’s Annual Governor’s Conference on Hospitality and Tourism

October 10, 2024 by Douglas Edlund

UT Students’ Experience at Tennessee’s Annual Governor’s Conference on Hospitality and Tourism

By Cara Smith, CEHHS Student Reporter, Class of 2024

Three students from the Department of Retail, Hospitality, and Tourism Management (RHTM) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, attended the 2024 Governor’s Conference (Gov Con) in Chattanooga on Sept. 25-27.

Erin Cosentino, Paul Vaughn, and Lily Vincent were three out of 10 students in the Hospitality and Tourism Management (HTM) program chosen to attend Gov Con by the Tennessee Hospitality and Tourism Association (TNHTA).

Group photo of GovCon attendees. — **(L-R) Lilly Vincent, Erin Consentino, Paul Vaughn**

The students submitted applications for the selection process, and professors in the department provided letters of recommendation.

“It was such an honor to be chosen to attend Gov Con. I appreciated the letters of support on my behalf from the RHTM department, here at UT, as well as the support from the TNHTA,” said Cosentino.

Gov Con is a three-day conference that brings together representatives of Tennessee’s travel and tourism industry. Speakers at this year’s conference included Gov. Bill Lee and Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, Mark Ezell.

Being chosen to attend Gov Con is a recognition of student’s hard work, talent, and potential for the hospitality and tourism industry.

“It came with a great sense of responsibility, knowing that I was representing my university, and was truly rewarding,” said Cosentino.

While attending Gov Con, all three students had opportunities to make professional connections. They split off into breakout groups, where experts in HTM gave advice on different topics, like how expansions of airports affects travel and how to use TripAdvisor to maximize all its benefits.

Speeches at the conference were also a highlight to the students because they provided first-hand examples of Tennessee’s tourism industry.

“Commissioner Ezell gave a very insightful and informative presentation about the state’s high-ranking position in various categories of tourism across the country,” said Vaughn.

All three students recommend applying and attending Gov Con for the different skills learned and networking connections made.

“I would highly recommend this conference to any student wanting to be in the hospitality industry, especially if you wish to stay in Tennessee because you learn a lot of statistics about the state, as well as meet a ton of people,” said Vincent.

Advice they gave to next year’s participants is to be engaged, be present, set a goal, and ask lots of questions.

“Put your heart and soul into your application, because it is an experience you will never forget!” said Vaughn.

Are Student Consent Forms Outdated When it Comes to Privacy?

March 26, 2024 by Alyssa Seisser

Are Student Consent Forms Outdated When it Comes to Privacy?

Study Examines Media Release Policies of U.S. School Districts

It’s 2024. Do you know where your child’s private information is on the internet? The latest addition to a line of research initiated by Knox County teacher and University of Tennessee, Knoxville, alumna, Macy A. Burchfield (‘22), and co-authored by associate professor in the Department of Theory & Practice in Teacher Education, Joshua M. Rosenberg and Sondra M. Stegenga from the University of Utah, has revealed the alarming indication that, not only is private information belonging to school-aged children circulating through social media channels largely untracked and unprotected, the media release policies and parental consent forms in use among the nation’s largest school districts currently do not inform caregivers about their planned use of social media in a comprehensive way. These policies, or, lack thereof, may be where the problems and risks with student data privacy in social media are originating.

The new study, published in The Journal of Research on Technology in Education, used qualitative content analysis (QCA) to analyze district policies from the 120 largest school districts in the United States, based on enrollment. The districts contained more than 86,000 students on average, or, about 20.9 percent of students in the country.

Though 87.7 percent of informed consent/media release documents analyzed mentioned the types of media that might be shared by the school, (photos, students’ names) and where it may be shared (newspapers, school websites, social media in general), only 13.3 percent of the forms contained mention of specific social media platforms where student information may be shared, such as Facebook, X, or YouTube. Furthermore, almost no forms disclosed the potential risks of sharing students’ personal information publicly. This is concerning since we know as a society that social media use is extremely widespread and that privacy risks exist, let alone the possibility of FERPA violations from sharing student information.

One thought-provoking and actionable conclusion from the study was that the forms in question may simply be outdated and in need of revision. Many of the consent forms analyzed were created prior to today’s age of social media. These outdated forms were meant to address sharing information in non-digital media, such as school directories and yearbooks.

“We now appear to be in a time of outdated consents that lack the specificity for an authentic understanding of the consents, leading to genuine risks to the child and family,” according to the study. “We question, is it really true informed consent, even if the boxes are checked and it is signed, if the family does not have all the necessary details and information to understand what, where, and why personally identifiable information will be shared?”

In an age of increasing digital experiences across the globe, this study contributes to the larger conversation of digital data ethics and informed consent. School districts in the U.S. and the wider educational community can increase safety by examining and updating their data policies and consent forms to better protect our younger generations’ privacy.

“I must say, attention to this issue of consent is immensely important, not only related to best practices in information security, but also related to the ethical obligations we have in ensuring truly informed consent with parents and students, ” said co-author Sondra Stegena.

Information for Students Registering for CFS-Prefix Classes

March 21, 2024 by Alyssa Seisser

Information for Students Registering for CFS-Prefix Classes

Beginning August 1, 2024, the Department of Child and Family Studies will become the Department of Counseling, Human Development, and Family Science (CHDFS).

The current undergraduate and graduate programs and courses will either be moved to an existing department (TPTE – IEC Interdisciplinary Early Childhood) or the newly-formed Counseling, Human Development, and Family Science (CHDFS) department.
In preparation for these program changes, all CFS-prefix classes will be discontinued, beginning in Fall 2024.
However, current students’ academic plans and degree plans WILL be honored, and the actual content of our courses will remain the same.
For Fall 2024, students should register for courses with either the HDFS-prefix or the IEC-prefix.
Here are two tables that give more details about the course prefix changes.

Old Prefix & Number	Course Title	New Prefix & Number
CFS 210	Human Development	HDFS 210
CFS 211	Development in Infancy and Childhood	HDFS 211
CFS 213	Development in Adolescence and Adulthood	HDFS 213
CFS 220	Marriage and Family: Roles and Relationships	HDFS 220
CFS 240	Human Sexuality	HDFS 240
CFS 320	Family Interaction	HDFS 320
CFS 345	Life Design	HDFS 345
CFS 360	Family Stress	HDFS 360
CFS 385	Diversity among Children and Families	HDFS 385
CFS 395	Introduction to Research Methods and Statistics	HDFS 395
CFS 405	Development of Professional Skills	HDFS 405
CFS 440	Family Life and Parent Education	HDFS 440
CFS 460	Directed Study in (was CFS) (now HDFS)	HDFS 460
CFS 480	Practicum: Community Placement	HDFS 480
CFS 481	Research in (was CFS) (now HDFS)	HDFS 481
CFS 485	Special Topics in (was CFS) (now HDFS)	HDFS 485
CFS 490	Practicum: Research	HDFS 490
CFS 497	Honors: (was CFS) (now HDFS)	HDFS 497

Old Prefix & Number	Course Title	New Prefix & Number
CFS 210	Human Development	HDFS 210
CFS 211	Development in Infancy and Childhood	HDFS 211
CFS 213	Development in Adolescence and Adulthood	HDFS 213
CFS 220	Marriage and Family: Roles and Relationships	HDFS 220
CFS 240	Human Sexuality	HDFS 240
CFS 320	Family Interaction	HDFS 320
CFS 345	Life Design	HDFS 345
CFS 360	Family Stress	HDFS 360
CFS 385	Diversity among Children and Families	HDFS 385
CFS 395	Introduction to Research Methods and Statistics	HDFS 395
CFS 405	Development of Professional Skills	HDFS 405
CFS 440	Family Life and Parent Education	HDFS 440
CFS 460	Directed Study in (was CFS) (now HDFS)	HDFS 460
CFS 480	Practicum: Community Placement	HDFS 480
CFS 481	Research in (was CFS) (now HDFS)	HDFS 481
CFS 485	Special Topics in (was CFS) (now HDFS)	HDFS 485
CFS 490	Practicum: Research	HDFS 490
CFS 497	Honors: (was CFS) (now HDFS)	HDFS 497

KRSS Alum Named Executive Director of Rise Above

March 5, 2024 by Alyssa Seisser

KRSS Alum Named Executive Director of Rise Above

The Growing Seattle Nonprofit Serves Native Youth Through Sports Clinics and Mentorship

Rise Above, a Seattle nonprofit dedicated to empowering Native youth, has announced that Natalie Welch has joined the organization as its new executive director.

“We couldn’t be more excited to have Natalie on our growing team,” says Rise Above CEO and founder Jaci McCormack. “Her expertise, knowledge and compassion are going to help us inspire even more kids.”

Natalie Welch

“I’m thrilled and honored to join Rise Above in this role,” Welch said. “Jaci and Brad have built an amazing foundation through their relationships and passion to serve Native youth.”

Welch brings over a decade of professional experience in the fields of marketing and education. She obtained her MBA from the University of Central Florida and completed her doctorate degree at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, focusing her dissertation on Native American athletes giving back to their communities.

She is originally from the Qualla Boundary in Cherokee, North Carolina, and is an enrolled member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Before moving to Seattle, Welch helped build a sport management program at Linfield University in McMinnville, Oregon. She volunteers regularly, including coaching for Girls on the Run, a nonprofit that focuses on the social, emotional, physical and behavioral skills of third- to eighth-grade girls.

As executive director, Welch will oversee Rise Above’s community services, organizing events and coordinating with like-minded nonprofits. Welch will continue in her current role as a professor at Seattle University, teaching in the MBA in Sport and Entertainment program in the Albers School of Business.

Welch Speaking to a Group of Youth in Seattle

“Having Natalie on our team is only going to make our work stronger as our organization expands its reach,” says Rise Above co-founder Brad Meyers. “Our mission is to empower Native kids, and she’s going to help us live out that mission.”

Rise Above is projected to grow 25% annually over the next five years, with an aim to double its staff and programming by 2025. To keep pace with expanding services and increased client requirements, Rise Above seeks a range of talented professionals to conceive, develop and implement new and emerging programs; identify and secure additional sources of funding; and recruit, retain and promote top-tier professionals to manage and shape strategy for the organization.

Rise Above has historically been funded by grants and charitable fund programs. Moving forward, it seeks to enlist more support from individuals, foundations, businesses and community partners.

“In the coming years, we have the opportunity to expand our work beyond the Pacific Northwest by maintaining crucial relationships across Indian Country and local governments,” Dr. Welch explained. “This opportunity to serve our Native people is one that I cherish, and I hope to inspire our youth and let them know that their dreams are possible.”

For more information, please nativeyouthriseabove.org or contact Rise Above at info@nativeyouthriseabove.org.

Dueñas Highlighted as a 2024 Emerging Scholar by Diverse: Issues in Higher Education

January 31, 2024 by Alyssa Seisser

Dueñas Highlighted as a 2024 Emerging Scholar by Diverse: Issues in Higher Education

Mary Dueñas is passionate about student success, especially among underrepresented and marginalized student populations. Because of her passion for students to thrive in a higher education environment, she dedicates a large portion of her scholarship research to examine equity and access issues in higher education.

Her work hasn’t gone unnoticed. Just recently, Diverse: Issues in Higher Education named Dueñas “An Equity and Access Champion” in their January 18^th, 2024, issue and has named her a Top 15 Emergent Scholar. The publication highlights emerging scholars making an impact on education on college campuses nationwide.

“Receiving this national recognition is wonderful, and I’m honored to share this platform with other outstanding scholars from different disciplines,” said Dueñas.

Dueñas is an assistant professor in the department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies (ELPS) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences (CEHHS). In addition, she serves as program coordinator for the master’s student personnel program in College Student Personnel (CSP).

Using both quantative and qualitative research methods, Dueñas focuses on Latina/o/x/e college students’ sense of belonging and their experience with imposter syndrome. She uses holistic frameworks and critical theory to share stories and explain systemic inequities that marginalized communities face in higher education.

“My research examines the ways in which larger social processes affect students and their overall well-being while also addressing underrepresented and marginalized students in relation to retention and success,” said Dueñas.

Cristobal Salinas, Jr., an associate professor of educational leadership and research methodology at Florida Atlantic University, nominated her for this prestigious national recognition. In his nomination letter, Salinas commended Dueñas for her commitment to scholarship that pushes the boundaries of higher education through novel perspectives and an innovative approach to research.

“This commitment to pioneering scholarship has been complemented by her unwavering dedication to teaching and mentoring the next generation of scholars, which is an integral part of her academic mission, explains Salinas.

Despite having a full plate at CEHHS, Dueñas has authored several peer-reviewed journal articles, been a guest on a podcast, and has several works she is authoring or co-authoring under review. One is “Síndrome del impostor: The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Latinx College Students’ Experiences with Imposter Syndrome.” She is co-authoring “Culturally Responsive Mentoring: A Psychosociocultural Perspective on Sustaining Students of Color Career Aspirations in STEM”.

Dueñas takes a glass-half-full approach to her work, focusing on the whole student. In other words, she says it’s about the positives that make a student’s experience successful and asking questions about what works.

“There is a changing landscape in how we think about higher education,” Dueñas says. “It’s not so much about the students adapting to higher education, it’s more about how higher education institutions supporting and serving students.”

Three Educational Psychology and Counseling Masters Students Selected for NBCC Fellowships

January 29, 2024 by Alyssa Seisser

Three Educational Psychology and Counseling Masters Students Selected for NBCC Fellowships

Three masters students in the department of Educational Psychology and Counseling (EPC) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences (CEHHS) are the recipients of a prestigious fellowship award. Abigail Gomez, Ulika Scout, and Tyler Ricks are part of the latest cohort in the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) Minority Fellowship Program (MFP).

As part of the NBCC, the MFP is a prestigious, rigorous, and highly effective program designed to enhance the workforce of professional counselors who have specialized skills to meet the unique needs of underserved communities. According to the organization’s website, the NBCC is the premier credentialing body for counselors. Once nationally certified, NBCC credentialed counselors have achieved the highest standard of practice through education, examination, supervision, experience, and ethical guidelines. As of today, there are over 69,000 national certified counselors in more than 40 countries.

Meet the NBCC MFP Fellows

Abby Gomez is a master’s student who wants to work with underserved populations to provide much-needed quality mental health care.

“I am thrilled to be a part of such a prestigious organization aimed at equipping counselors to support underserved communities, said Gomez. “Not only do I believe that this will profoundly impact my professional development, but that it will also strengthen and equip me to provide quality mental health care to the Hispanic population.”

Tyler Ricks will work with the Minority Fellowship Program for mental health counselors.

“Receiving the NBCC Minority Fellowship opens doors that Black women like myself can’t always access. Unparalleled mentorship, networking opportunities, and financial support are just a few of the ways being an NBCC fellow will advance my career in the counseling field,” stated Ricks.

Ulika (Ulli) Scout master’s studies focus on how counselors may play a role in helping others in facing the challenges of addiction and recovery.

“I am honored by the recognition and investment from NBCC in my current studies and my future as an addiction counselor. I see the previous recipients and those within my new cohort and feel as though I am right where I need to be,” said Scout.

A Program for Professional and Personal Development

“Unmet mental health needs have a significant impact on the wellbeing of our communities in Tennessee and beyond,” said Casey Barrio, department head in EPC. “Sometimes, mental health need goes unmet because there are simply not enough accessible providers. At other times, mental health need goes unmet because community members do not perceive the help that is available help as responsive to their beliefs, values, or context. This unique program targets both areas, equipping participants with unique skills for providing accessible, culturally sustaining counseling services in their communities.”

Jamian Coleman is a previous NBCC Minority Fellow and is an assistant professor in EPC. He credits the fellowship with having a transformative impact on his professional and personal growth and development.

“The NBCC fellowship provided me with invaluable support, mentorship, and numerous opportunities for professional development,” said Coleman. “It significantly influenced my career path, and I am thrilled and proud that three of our outstanding master’s counseling students have been chosen for this fellowship. This reflects the fellowship program’s commitment to nurturing counselors to serve historically marginalized communities. My involvement in theNBCC community has been truly enriching, and I look forward with enthusiasm to witness the ongoing positive transformations it brings about for our students selected for this upcoming NBCC fellowship cohort.”

Established in 1982, NBCC’s original and primary purposes have broadened, and its divisions and affiliates have taken on additional responsibilities to advance the counseling profession and enhance mental health worldwide.

“Our scholars have demonstrated strong potential to optimize mental health care in East Tennessee and beyond. We are proud of the achievements and grateful for the meaningful differences they will make in their communities,” said Barrio.

A Guide To Accessible Travel for People with Disabilities in 2024

January 26, 2024 by Alyssa Seisser

A Guide To Accessible Travel for People with Disabilities in 2024

Reprinted from MarketWatch

Written by Bradford Cuthrell

Edited by Tori Addison

Traveling is an enriching experience that can bring a sense of freedom and excitement as you experience the thrill of exploring new cultures, landscapes and foods. However, for individuals with disabilities, this thrill can also be accompanied by distinct challenges.

When traveling with a disability, each new experience requires attention to detail where accessibility, convenience and safety become paramount. This guide provides insights on strategies for traveling the globe with a disability.

To aid you on this journey, we’ve consulted with two experts:

Dr. Kwangsoo Park, Associate Dean of the College of Business and Director of the White Lodging School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Purdue University Northwest
Dr. Stefanie Benjamin, Associate Professor of Retail, Hospitality and Tourism Management at the University of Tennessee Knoxville

These experts will provide valuable guidance on how to navigate the travel experience for people with disabilities.

Planning Your Trip

Researching your desired destinations and familiarizing yourself with accessibility and disability rights can help you advocate for yourself and enable your needs to be met wherever you decide to go.

“People with disabilities should ensure that their travel destination and accommodations are accessible, taking into account their specific needs. Despite efforts by companies and governments to enforce reasonable accommodations, there are still places that lack adequate facilities for individuals with certain disabilities,” Dr. Park said.

In the planning stages, it can be helpful to look into special protections or services available for individuals with disabilities at airports, such as designated assistance services, to ensure an itinerary that allows you to accomplish your travel goals.

Following these planning steps can help make your trip as accessible and enjoyable as possible.

Plan Your Trip Backward

Before you start planning, it can help to first determine desired activities at your selected destination. By doing so, you can make sure the places you want to visit and the activities you wish to engage in are easily accessible.

When researching, seek out resources specifically dedicated to your unique community for trustworthy information on accessible-friendly guided tours, how to access tourist attractions and other valuable details. By utilizing comprehensive resources, you can plan a trip that caters to your needs and create an enjoyable and inclusive travel experience.

Make Reservations that Ensure Accessibility

After conducting thorough research on the accessibility of your chosen destination, the next step is to make reservations.

“Depending on the disability — lots of planning is involved when traveling. Always consider and understand that not every destination is the same,” Dr. Stefanie Benjamin said.

Take the time to explore and identify accommodations, such as hotels, tours and excursions, that offer specialized accessibility features as this will make your travel experience more seamless. Consider factors such as transportation options, and book airline, bus or train tickets with companies that prioritize and cater to accessibility needs.

Proactively considering these aspects and making reservations with accessibility at the forefront of planning can offer peace of mind in knowing your trip will be free from any last-minute accessibility-related concerns.

Research Protective Measures for Traveling

In the realm of travel, unpredictability will occasionally arise, making it important to consider protective measures for your safety and well-being. One of the most common precautions to consider is obtaining comprehensive travel insurance. This type of insurance covers unforeseen circumstances while traveling, including trip cancellations, unexpected medical emergencies or misplaced luggage, among other incidents. By securing adequate travel insurance, you can rest assured in knowing you have financial protection against potential trip hurdles.

It’s also important to note and be aware of the special protections that airports offer to individuals with disabilities. Airports provide equal access and comfortable travel experiences with accessible parking spaces, restrooms with features like grab bars and trained staff to assist passengers. Other examples include alternative screening procedures and private screenings, the ability to bring medical equipment and mobility aids onboard the plane, and other assistance programs like wheelchair assistance and transportation.

Before you fly, familiarize yourself with the protective resources available at the departure and arrival airports by either contacting each location or checking online for a list of services. These special protections are there to ensure that individuals with disabilities can travel with safety, comfort and dignity.

Packing Tips

While packing for your trip, consider items and equipment that will help support your needs while traveling. Airlines are not allowed to charge for transporting mobility equipment like wheelchairs and generally accept service dogs to support accessible travel.

Here is a table outlining several essential items to pack:

Item	Reason
Comfort items	Familiar items can help make you feel more at ease while traveling
Medical equipment	Ensure necessary medical equipment is available
Collapsible shower chairs	Assists with accessibility in bathing facilities
Medications and prescriptions	Make sure you have an ample supply of necessary medications while you travel
Collapsible walking aids	Supports mobility and ease of movement
Assistive hearing aids	Allows for full participation in travel engagements
Medical ID	Provides important medical information in the case of an emergency

By considering these and any other specific items based on your needs, you can be well-prepared for any trip and have the necessary support and comfort throughout your journey.

Navigating the Airport

When traveling by air, navigating the airport can be a challenge, especially for individuals with disabilities or mobility impairments. However, careful planning and preparation can combat the anxieties involved and create a stress-free experience.

Checking Bags and Other Items

Before heading to the airport, familiarize yourself with the policies and procedures for checking bags and other items. Getting to the airport early is always recommended to allow sufficient time for check-in and security screening. “Arriving earlier than told is key,” Benjamin added.

If you require any assistance, such as checking wheelchairs or other assistive devices, it is advisable to call ahead and inform the airline of your specific needs. If you are worried about your bags getting lost during transit, consider buying baggage coverage to protect your belongings.

Getting Through Security, Boarding and Deplaning

Security procedures can be quite daunting, but there are several ways to make the process easier. Similar to checking bags, it is advisable to inform the airport and TSA in advance of any accommodations or assistance you require. TSA Cares is a program designed to assist travelers with disabilities or medical conditions when it comes to getting through security, boarding and deplaning. Additionally, traveling with a companion can provide that extra layer of support throughout your journey.

To expedite the security screening processes, consider applying for TSA Precheck to evade long lines and wait times. Looking ahead at airport maps can help you locate accessible restrooms and food options that meet your dietary restrictions and know what to expect. When it comes to getting to your gate, you can file a ride request from airport staff to save you time and energy. Lastly, contacting your airline in advance to arrange for assistance during boarding and deplaning can help facilitate the assistance you need.

Safety Tips While Traveling at the Airport

Navigating the airport can be a manageable process if you plan ahead and are aware of the available resources and accommodations. While traveling, it is important to prioritize safety and to be aware of your rights and accessibility laws.

Mobility-impaired individuals are often targeted by thieves, so it is crucial to keep your bags close at all times. “While this situation can occur for anyone, it’s advisable to keep important documents and valuables secure. I would strongly recommend that people with disabilities carry a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities and embassy/consulate information,” Park said.

If necessary, consider using a money belt or travel wallet to hide your valuables on your person. By taking these simple precautions, you can minimize the risk of becoming a victim of theft.

Enjoying Your Destination

Traveling to new destinations can be an exciting and fulfilling experience. It allows you to immerse yourself in different cultures, explore new sights and create lasting memories. However, while enjoying your travels, it is important to prioritize your safety and remain aware of your surroundings. By empowering yourself with knowledge and taking certain precautions, you can make the most of your travel while ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.

How To Make the Most of Your Travel

Making the most of your travel may require you to embrace certain strategies, such as researching and planning ahead for accessible destinations. To maximize your experience, it is recommended to replicate your home routine as much as possible to maintain familiarity and comfort. When it comes to outings and adventures, pace yourself and allow for relaxation to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Since additional amenities can enhance your overall travel experience, see if you can take advantage of perks and benefits from memberships or credit cards, such as access to airport lounges and travel upgrades.

Safety Tips While At Your Destination

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance your travel experience, ensure your safety and navigate your destination more effectively. A major safety tip to protect yourself financially in the event of unforeseen medical emergencies is to obtain comprehensive travel medical insurance. Next, to enjoy the trip experience, it’s a good idea to learn basic local phrases to facilitate communication and ask for help when needed. Additionally, carry an accessibility card to effectively communicate your specific needs if possible.

Organizations that Help People with Disabilities While Traveling

There are several organizations dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities while traveling. Here are a few examples:

The Disabled Travelers Guide offers comprehensive resources and information for travelers with disabilities. Its website provides guides on accessible destinations, travel tips, and a forum where users can share their experiences and advice.
The Society for Accessible Travel and Hospitality (SATH) is an organization working to promote accessibility and inclusivity in the travel and hospitality industry. It provides resources, training and advocacy for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have equal access to travel opportunities.
Accessible Travel Solutions specializes in providing accessible travel planning services for individuals with disabilities. It offers customized itineraries, accommodations research and transportation arrangements tailored to specific accessibility needs.
The National Center on Disability and Access to Education (NCDAE) focuses on ensuring equal access to education for individuals with disabilities. While its primary focus is education, its website provides valuable information on accessible technology, accommodations and beneficial resources for disabled travelers.

These organizations are dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities to explore the world with confidence. Each offers valuable resources and advocacy to enhance the travel experience for disabled individuals.

Conclusion

While traveling with disabilities can present its own set of challenges, there are ways to keep those challenges from interfering with your trip. With proactive trip research, good planning and resource utilization, individuals with disabilities can experience inclusive travel opportunities to create lasting trip memories

Our Experts

Dr. Kwangsoo Park holds the position of Associate Dean in the College of Business and is the Director of the White Lodging School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Purdue University Northwest. His research focuses on enhancing services for people with disabilities and their families in the hospitality and tourism sector. Dr. Park’s primary goal is to reduce biases associated with disabilities and improve service quality for all consumers, irrespective of their disability status.
Dr. Stefanie Benjamin serves as an Associate Professor of Retail, Hospitality, and Tourism Management at the University of Tennessee Knoxville. Her research interests revolve around social equity and critical tourism scholarship, with a specific focus on the experiences and narratives of marginalized populations. She is committed to promoting social advocacy and amplifying underrepresented voices in the tourism field through research, education and practice. As a certified qualitative researcher, she employs various methodologies, such as collective storytelling and ethnography, to explore these areas. Dr. Benjamin is also involved in content tourism research and offers improvisational theater workshops to enhance empathetic listening and creative skill development.