By Simone Sessolo
Each year, LSA selects one lecturer for the Lecturer Excellence in Inclusive Teaching Award, which honors those who consistently excel in inclusive teaching practices. This year, our own Scott Beal has been nominated as the recipient. Scott and I began together at Sweetland in 2012, and I’ve frequently witnessed his intentional approach to inclusive pedagogy. His courses are innovative, with a thoughtful range of readings and a strong focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion—especially in Race and Ethnicity Requirement classes. Scott’s training through ERACCE workshops, the LSA Diversity and Climate Institute, and CRLT initiatives is evident in his deeply reflective and effective teaching. His teaching statement exemplifies antiracist values, and I regularly seek his advice on inclusive practices.
Scott’s deep commitment to inclusivity and anti-racism is clear from the intentional flow of his curriculum for the course Antiracist Fantasy Worldbuilding—from building shared understanding of race, systemic racism, whiteness, and intersectionality, to analyzing creative works by writers and artists of color that challenge dominant narratives and inspire students to envision a better society. In particular, the final assignment encourages students to apply their learning by creating a personal anti-racist action plan. Scott has structured readings, assignments, and classroom activities to include all voices and perspectives, fostering a respectful, democratic space for discussion.
It is no wonder that students consistently praise Scott’s support and rigor, noting how comfortable and engaged they feel in his classes. Scott is also active in Sweetland’s fairness and justice activities, outreaches to schools and nonprofits, and was key in developing Sweetland’s Core Values Statement. He helped found the Anti-Racist Task Force, fostering ongoing collaborations on inclusive pedagogy.
Colleagues describe Scott as energetic and deeply dedicated to student growth, with many students achieving notable writing awards. I’m grateful for all I’ve learned from him in antiracist and inclusive teaching—truly, no one is more deserving of this award. Hurray Scott!
