CETL's Mission Statement
The Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) is an integral part of higher education as this office provides in-house professional development opportunities for faculty and staff, encourages faculty involvement, and focuses on highlighting the community's knowledge and insights.
This might be your first semester teaching or you might be a veteran instructor looking to grow. In either case, reach out to CETL to assist with your needs.
A Message from LA CETL Director, Prima Gonzalez
CETL is committed to working with faculty at all stages of their careers. Understanding the fundamentals of teaching allows instructors to share their industry-leading knowledge and experience in an inclusive manner that resonates with NYFA’s diverse student body. The landscape of education is constantly changing, so CETL collaborates with other NYFA offices, such as Counseling Services and Student Life, to promote effective pedagogy and relevant initiatives.
Faculty and staff are strongly encouraged to contribute their ideas by suggesting professional development opportunities and by sharing their own expertise through cross-campus workshops. Identifying the common threads that bind the film, media, and performing arts departments demonstrates the value of community at the New York Film Academy.
I am originally from Studio City, California and I am a very proud Angeleno. After beginning my undergraduate studies as a Neuroscience major, I realized that my heart was with the arts and creative writing. I went on to earn my Master's in Teaching with a specialization in TESOL from the University of Southern California. I greatly enjoy not only teaching, but the constant learning that comes with being an educator. I also bring international teaching experience from all over the world - France, Costa Rica, India, Morocco, and Thailand.
Community is very important to me, so I actively create a sense of belonging in my classrooms and seek ways to connect faculty and staff across departments and offices.
Long Island born and Oklahoma raised, this Brooklyn resident is proud to be serving as your CETL-NY Director. Starting in 8th grade I was able to major in Theatre at Classen School of Advanced Studies a public magnet school in Oklahoma City. From there I went on to earn a BFA in Acting from Adelphi University and then a MFA in Acting from the University of Iowa where my passion for education really took root. For as long as I can remember I’ve had a foot in education and art and feel most inspired when exploring interdisciplinary learning.
As an educator I’ve worked at Adelphi University, University of Iowa, Queensborough Community College, City Tech, Brooklyn College, Montclair State University, and more. I am also the Associate Chair of Liberal Arts & Sciences here at NYFA and am a CUNY K16 Pedagogy Fellow.
Like Prima, community is one of the biggest priorities in my life. I was a dedicated Girl Scout in my youth, who earned her Gold Award, and bring that same spirit with me to our Cross-Campus Programming Committee that works together to make NYFA a place of belonging for all members of our community.
NY Faculty & Staff are encourage to contact Lauren directly at: cetl.ny@nyfa.edu and can submit ideas for NY-CETL through the NY-Pitch & Request Form.
The CETL Google Site is a supportive website which will be under continued revision to better serve NYFA's faculty community. You are highly encouraged to offer feedback or ideas regarding content, structure, and new pages by completing the CETL Site Feedback & Ideas Google Form.