URI_Research_Magazine_Momentum_Fall_2021_Melissa-McCarthy

“I am passionate about equity and justice — it’s the core of who I am. I am driven to do equity research that matters.”

ANNEMARIE VACCARO Professor, Alan Shawn Feinstein College of Education and Professional Studies Director, College Student Personnel Program

- Annemarie Vaccaro

“Students shared their narratives, and it was quite enlightening,” Vaccaro says. “We began by looking at the campus climate for diversity in the classroom, and it evolved into a holistic image of what it’s like to be an LGBTQ student. Students expressed concern about finding a job in their chosen field and whether they would be accepted. Many women came forward and discussed gender issues in the classroom, such as their ideas being co-opted by men and presented as their own.” But it’s not just research for research’s sake. Vaccaro shares their narratives in publications, at conferences, and at campuses across the U.S. to help faculty, administrators and staff create more affirming spaces. Vaccaro explains, “Participant stories are educational, illuminating data that can help us be better, and help others have a more equitable experience.”

As facilitator for URI’s Faculty Inclusion Workshops, Vaccaro has facilitated more than 50 workshops to more than 1,000 attendees between August 2018 and June 2021. Geared for both faculty and administration, she infused equity research from scholars around the globe as well as her own work. Topics included using inclusive pedagogy, designing equitable course content, and fostering belonging in faculty spheres of influence. A prolific and passionate writer, Vaccaro has published many peer-reviewed articles, book chapters and two books on equitable higher education as well as inclusive and socially just teaching, research and professional practice. “One of my goals is to contribute to the body of scholarly literature that helps other educators engage in inclusive teaching and administration,” she says. “My hope is that someone will read my work and say, ‘I’m going to use that to do equity work on my campus.’”

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