Faculty Advocate Profile

 

Elizabeth Spievak, PhD

I have been with BSU since 2003, am currently an Associate Professor of Psychology, and chair the IRB. I joined FAN because I am very happy at BSU, but was slow to make connections when I arrived on campus. I am a Midwesterner and was a bit daunted by New England culture, the cost of living, and being so far from anyone and anyplace I'd ever known. I found the course load overwhelming and quickly learned that my colleagues were too swamped themselves to notice that I needed more support. I would like to help others transition more easily. I might be helpful to someone who is working on expanding their research at BSU or who is looking forward to building a program of research that includes undergraduate researchers.

While there is plenty of support on campus for undergraduate research, start-up is never easy and may be put on the back burner for too long. I have a very active research program that meets my needs and provides many opportunities for undergraduates every semester.I might also be helpful to a new teacher, or to someone who is struggling with new courses, methods, assessment, and the like. I have an eclectic educational and occupational background and I have taught at large public and small private institutions. My students have ranged from 60-year-old non-readers in workplace training programs to graduate students. I teach introductory classes and upper level seminars at BSU and make extensive use of research as a vehicle for teaching. I am a strong believer in high standards and accountability and expect no less from my students than I do from myself.

I have no animals, plants or other long term obligations, so I might not be terribly helpful with regard to juggling family and work. However, I am fiercely protective of my alone time and my exercise routine. I live in Hull, where I run on the beach in all weather, and I belong to a YMCA in Hanover, where I lift weights most every day. Sometimes it feels selfish, but I know that I am a better teacher, advisor and researcher when I make those activities a priority. Dealing with guilt is a part of life, particularly the life of a teacher. There is always more we could do and we all struggle for balance.

I have written (some successful, some not so successful) federal and foundation grants and have received CART funding for research and travel. I have served on CART, the IRB, and various departmental committees. I still do some consulting and collaborative research with my friends in trial consulting.
 

Phone:    508.531.2154

Email:    espievak@bridgew.edu 

 

 

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Last Modified: February 17, 2011