CTAL appoints new director
January 28, 2019
Center for Teaching and Assessment of Learning welcomes Matthew Trevett-Smith as director
Matthew Trevett-Smith has been named director of the University of Delaware Center for Teaching and Assessment of Learning (CTAL) after a national search.
Trevett-Smith comes to UD from Boston University, where he was the inaugural director of its Center for Teaching and Learning. At Boston, he worked with hundreds of faculty and created innovative campuswide initiatives to enhance teaching and learning. One of the hallmarks of Trevett-Smith’s faculty development vision is creating connections between faculty (whom he sees as teacher-scholars) through the growth and nurturing of faculty learning communities. Additionally, Trevett-Smith has taught courses in mass media studies through Boston University’s College of Communication.
"I was drawn to UD," Trevett-Smith said, "because it is a major research university dedicated to the cultivation of learning -- UD’s community of educators understands that research and teaching are mutually reinforcing. Fostering excellence in teaching relies upon an equal commitment to research and the development of knowledge, and vice versa."
Trained as an anthropologist, Trevett-Smith brings significant digital literacy experience to the position, as well as experience in implementing the latest in evidence-based practices in teaching.
Lynn Okagaki, deputy provost for academic affairs, highlighted Trevett-Smith’s research-minded approach to faculty development saying, "Matt uses the scholarship of teaching and learning as a foundation for all of his work with instructors, and that scientific approach leads to meaningful and lasting learning experiences for students. I am pleased to welcome him to UD and confident that this mindset can make our students even more successful."
Iain Crawford, associate professor of English who chaired the search committee, noted, "The position drew a very competitive pool of applicants, and the search committee was delighted that we were able to hire Matt. His knowledge and experience were evident in his CV, and during the visit to campus he impressed us even more with his energy, thoughtfulness and engagement. We feel he will be an exciting addition to UD and will help build on the excellent foundation Kathy Pusecker created during her time with CTAL."
Upon his arrival on March 1, Trevett-Smith said he is eager to expand CTAL’s successes: "CTAL is in a unique position to collaborate across disciplinary silos to marshal UD leadership, faculty and staff in the pursuit of teaching excellence, impactful student learning and fostering a culture of reflective teacher-scholars. The more responsive we are to UD’s teaching and learning priorities, the more authentic our service and programming becomes. I am eager to begin my conversations with local college leadership so that CTAL can help to ignite, catalyze and reinforce their local vision. I am confident in our ability to respond to unfolding demands responsibly and with meaningful impact."
All who teach at UD are invited to an informal meet-and-greet with Trevett-Smith from 1-5 p.m., Friday, March 22, in the CTAL offices in Room 212 Gore Hall. Refreshments will be served throughout the time to celebrate the occasion.
The Center for Teaching and Assessment of Learning provides resources for all who teach at UD. To learn more about CTAL services or upcoming programs, visit www.ctal.udel.edu
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