I tell my students, as historians, we can’t travel back in time. But we can look at pieces of the past, and ask questions! What should we ask.
Teaching Latin American history is a vocation for CSUSM Professor Carmen Nava. She challenges students to think critically about the past, and encourages them to use historical understanding to better engage with their own diverse stories and communities.
Working at a new university has offered Nava opportunities to help build institutional policies and practices, which for her is another way to promote student learning. She directed the faculty development center, and chaired Academic Senate committees for curriculum and faculty affairs. In the community, Nava supports the San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum, which encourages interactive learning about world cultures and science.
In recognition of her significant service contributions and professional expertise, Nava was awarded the President’s Award for Service Leadership in Academic Year 2015-2016.