Clinical Professor, School of Education (Class II)

In an effort to help middle-school students at risk of failure in Durham, Orange and Caswell Counties, Suzanne Gulledge developed the ACES (Academic Curriculum Enrichment Students) project. This initiative brings together teachers in training and university students in other majors who have an interest in education. These students participate in service-learning projects as tutors and mentor to help middle-school students address the critical foundations of academic success in core academics.

Through the Faculty Engaged Scholars program (FES Program), Gulledge advanced her commitment to experiential education to bring a project to life. Sessions with other scholars, staff and invited guests helped her develop an approach appropriate to prepare and train teachers. Intellectual stimulation combined with community-based experiences served as the impetus needed to shape an initiative that extended work from Durham and Orange counties to rural Caswell County. Involvement with the FES program inspired and prepared Gulledge to continue this project as well as extend it into study abroad programs in the School of Education. Engagement and experiential education have the power to enhance the kind of learning that embraces service and advances social justice.

“Through the program I have realized a vision I’ve had for a long time; and, what I am most excited about are the new dreams, inspiration and energy I have for my future scholarly and professional work. I am very proud and grateful to have been selected as a Faculty Engaged Scholar.”