Exploration. Transformation. And all that Jazz. A native of Puerto Rico and part-time jazz saxophonist, Spanish professor Maria Ortiz brings a global perspective to her students’ learning. Dr. Ortiz is a vocal champion of the study abroad experience, and loves seeing her students return from a trip transformed.
On campus, she leads as a Diversity Scholars mentor and Vice-chair of the college’s Cultural Diversity Committee. In the classroom, her enthusiasm is contagious. Simply put, her students adore her. And the feeling is mutual.
I love the students here. They come from different backgrounds and paths in life and our supportive campus creates a unique community where they come together to learn and grow. Being witness to their achievements energizes me!
Research. Discussion. Personal Discovery. Behavioral Science professor Todd Callais is an avid researcher in the areas of criminology and media, and brought his passion to life on campus last year through the development of the Police+Race+Trust speakers series.
This unique series brought nationally recognized experts to UC Blue Ash for frank discussions about the role of police and race in our society and their depiction in the media.
More than anything, though, Dr. Callais loves helping students identify and research topics that they are passionate about. I quite enjoy guiding students through independent research projects. I have had a student win a prize in the student paper competition at the North Central Sociological Association for the last two years now.
The speaker series allowed my students to gain new perspectives on a topic that is near and dear to me. University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College
21