Senator Spotlight November 2024
Category
Senator Spotlight
YOUR NAME: Marie-Louise Paulesc
What unit do you represent? I represent the Languages and Cultures unit within the School of Applied Sciences and Arts, part of the College of Integrative Sciences and Arts.
How many years have you served in the Senate? This is my third year.
How many years have you been employed at ASU?
I am a double ASU alumna, having earned both my MA and PhD in Communication here. This is my ninth year as a full-time ASU employee.
What other institutions have you taught at before coming to ASU?
I taught at the School of Journalism and Communication Sciences at the University of Bucharest, Romania, while also working as a journalist and PR manager. However, my dedication to an academic career truly began at ASU.
What is your research and/or creative activities focus? As career-track faculty, I invest most of my creativity and research into teaching. I support underprepared learners in the LEAD program by teaching the introductory Communication course, while also developing and delivering courses that encourage critical thinking and engage students in areas related to rhetoric, cultural studies, and leadership development. Beyond my teaching responsibilities, my main research interest is in public memory; I am currently exploring how collective remembering is shaped by film.
Why did you decide to get involved with the Senate? I decided to get involved with the Senate because I believe it is one of the most meaningful ways to serve my fellow faculty members. On a personal level, I wanted to gain a deeper understanding of how ASU operates and contribute to its governance and decision-making processes.
Describe what you have learned (or hope to learn) during your time in the Senate? I’ve gained valuable insights into the governance and decision-making processes that shape our academic community and developed a better understanding of the university’s extensive operations. And I have a new appreciation for the many facets of our large institution and the challenges they present. I’ve also had the opportunity to meet many interesting people from different areas of the university.
What committees have you participated in, or would like to participate in and what were you able to (or hope to) accomplish? For two years, I was a member of the Committee on Committees. While it might not seem like the most thrilling assignment, managing nominations and elections for other university committees and faculty-leadership positions is essential for effective governance.
What would you say to your peers who might be considering accepting a nomination or nominating himself or herself for a position in the University Senate? I’d say: go for it! Joining the University Senate is a fantastic way to gain a deeper understanding of how our university functions and the various dynamics that impact its workings. It’s an opportunity to engage with the wider university community and make a meaningful impact. Plus, you’ll connect with individuals in different roles and learn about their work and the perspectives they bring to discussions on key issues affecting the entire university.