September 17, 2015
Nieto to present about socially just practices in classrooms
A renowned academician, author and researcher will present on campus this week as part of the College of Education's Distinguished Educational Research Lecture Series.
Sonia Nieto will present "Finding Joy in Teaching Students of Diverse Backgrounds: Culturally Responsive and Socially Just Practices in U.S. Classrooms" at 9:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 18, in Forum Hall at the K-State Student Union. Nieto is professor emerita in language, literacy and culture at the College of Education at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
For those unable to attend, the lecture will be streamed live. Nieto will autograph copies of her books at 4 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 17, in 21 Bluemont Hall.
"Teaching is about power," Nieto said. "That is why it must also be about social justice."
Linda P. Thurston, College of Education associate dean of research and graduate students and Lydia E. Skeen chair, believes this will provide an excellent opportunity for faculty and students to interact with one of the field's leading researchers.
"We are excited to have Dr. Nieto as our Distinguished Education Research Lecturer this year," Thurston said. "She is an outstanding educator who has contributed significantly to the dialogue about social justice education. The college is honored to have this opportunity to hear her talk about her work and to have the opportunity for students and faculty to engage with her on a significant level."
Nieto's lecture also complements the "Not Just a Year of Social Justice Education" program developed by the College of Education and the Midwest Equity Assistance Center as well as the college's graduate certificate in Social Justice Education.