Deanna Vaughn. M.Ed.

Reading & Writing Instructional Specialist

Programs

Education

  • M.Ed., Secondary Education, Howard University, 2014
  • B.S., English, Towson University, 2007

Interests

  • Portrayal of the Black Woman in African American Literature
  • African Spirituality in African American Literature

Affiliations

  • Member of National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa
  • Anne Arundel Community College African American Leadership Institute (AALI) Alumna
  • Organizer of AACC Black Women Adjunct Faculty Network

Philosophy

Carlotta Walls Lanier once said, “Education is the greatest equalizer. It empowers us to break down barriers and transcend limitations.” As I reflect on this quote, I recognize that it coheres with my convictions as it relates to teaching. I believe that teaching is an act of justice. It liberates, presents a wealth of opportunities, and opens the doors to a world of infinite possibilities for both the teacher and the learners. The teacher is essentially the servant to the curious minds before her and helps those recipients of the information discover their voice, and further fortify their nascently quiescent voices to a higher level of awareness and vigor, as it relates to the world around them. For this reason, teaching is the driving force behind deconstructing oppressive systems and harmful narratives that have repeatedly shaped the societies and world we live in.
In order for teaching to succeed as an act of justice, the teacher and learners must commit to an impervious partnership. Neither party is subordinate to the other, but it is an equal exchange of challenge. It is a partnership that is sustained through transparency, collaborative discussion, democratic techniques, and honest and constructive feedback between the parties. The goal of the partnership is to bolster one another to the finish line of success.
I also maintain therefore, that teachers are champions for themselves first, and then for their students. This means that teachers must continually strive to build their own character and expertise and commit to leading with empathy and purpose, while also advocating for equity and student agency. This happens when teachers use a holistic approach in the classroom, which helps to support students not just academically, but mentally, spiritually, and emotionally.
Based on this statement of belief, my goal as an instructor is to advance my practice and apply my experience so that my future students fine-tune their critical thinking ability, master inform

Courses Taught

CRS 107
ENGL 107