LITE Center
Welcome to the LITE Center at Westcliff University, Where Passion Meets Innovation in Teaching!
At the Learning, Innovation, and Teaching Excellence (LITE) Center, nestled under the Office of Faculty Affairs, we’re dedicated to fostering a vibrant culture of lifelong learning among our faculty. We believe that education is both an art and a craft, and we’re committed to ensuring our students receive the highest quality educational experience. To support this mission, we provide 24/7 assistance to our faculty members, ensuring they have access to resources and support whenever they need it.
Who Are We?
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Evelin Suij-Ojeda, MAEd, MATESOL, Ph.D. evelinsuij-ojeda@westcliff.edu
Director of LITE Center |
| As an educator above all else, I am deeply passionate about my role in supporting instructors at WU. Having firsthand experience with the challenges faced in the classroom, I understand the importance of providing meaningful support to fellow educators. This position is not just a job for me, but a fulfilling journey that allows me to contribute significantly to the growth and development of those who are the architects of our future. At WU, I find a unique environment where educators are deeply committed to excellence in teaching and learning. The educators here, much like yourselves, are not just instructors but influential figures shaping the minds and lives of future generations. | |
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Joanie Mitchell, MS Data Analytics, MA Soc.
LITE Center New Faculty Orientation (NFO) Coordinator & Professional Development Specialist |
| At WU, I’m most passionate about collaborating with our diverse faculty and helping them grow professionally. It’s rewarding to see the direct impact of our work on teaching quality and student success, especially when implementing innovative teaching tools and strategies that enhance our educational environment. | |
Empower Your Teaching Journey with LITE Center Support
- Elevate Your Professional Growth: Unlock cutting-edge instructional support and innovative teaching methods designed to propel your career forward. Engage in initiatives that not only enhance your skills but also transform your classroom into a dynamic learning environment.
- Gain Classroom Insights: Benefit from non-evaluative classroom visits that offer constructive feedback and resources. Refine your teaching techniques in real-time and see immediate improvements in your live classes.
- Embrace Collaborative Learning: Join a vibrant community of educators committed to excellence. Participate in peer observations to share effective instructional practices, fostering a culture of collaboration and reflective growth.
- Achieve Online Teaching Excellence: Access specialized online teaching support, including training to facilitate engaging discussions on GAP. Elevate your virtual classroom and connect with students like never before!
Kickstart Your Journey with Our New Faculty Orientation: Your Launchpad to Teaching Excellence at Westcliff University
Under the expert guidance of Prof. Mitchell, embark on your teaching journey with confidence through our New Faculty Orientation (NFO) program. This engaging onboarding experience is designed to prepare you for the dynamic challenges of the higher education classroom and to familiarize you with Westcliff University’s administrative procedures. The NFO warmly welcomes all newly hired instructors, guiding you through everything you need to know about our institution and equipping you with the tools to successfully start teaching your first course(s). Discover effective teaching strategies, understand our policies, and connect with support systems that will empower you to make a meaningful impact from day one!
Stay Inspired & Connected with PD to Go
Receive our monthly newsletter, PD to Go, packed with resources and innovative teaching ideas that cater to both your academic pursuits and personal well-being.
Tailored Just for You!
Engage in our reading clubs, or enhance your skills with self-paced courses, short webinars, and monthly one-hour sessions, all designed to meet your unique professional needs! You can register for all these live sessions on Acorn!
Discover a World of Opportunities on Acorn
All of our services, faculty professional development initiatives, courses and resources are just a click away on Acorn, the LITE Center’s professional development website. Explore and engage with hundreds of self-paced courses and a wealth of resources designed to enhance teaching effectiveness. Need personalized support? You can easily request any of our on-demand services directly through Acorn.
The CAPRI Model: A Framework for Excellence in Teaching and Professional Development at Westcliff University
At Westcliff University, we are proud to implement the CAPRI Model, a systematic approach to learning and professional development that ensures every classroom experience is contextualized, applied, practical, relevant, and inclusive.
Rooted in decades of research and inspired by the groundbreaking work of renowned theorists like Fink (2003), Knowles (1980), Boucouvalas (1999), and Gay (2002), the CAPRI Model redefines how educators engage with learners.
This innovative model isn’t just about teaching; it’s about cultivating teaching excellence and continuous professional growth. By embracing the CAPRI Model, faculty members develop the skills and strategies needed to deliver meaningful, inclusive, and impactful learning experiences.
Whether you’re teaching in-person or online, the CAPRI Model empowers educators to connect theory with practice, foster critical thinking, and inspire lifelong learning, ensuring student success while advancing their own professional journey.
Ready to Boost Your Teaching?
Visit Acorn today and unlock the full potential of the LITE Center’s offerings. For any questions or additional support, don’t hesitate to email us at lite-pd@westcliff.edu
Join all of our initiatives and become part of Westcliff University’s tradition of teaching excellence!
At the LITE Center, we’re here to support you every step of the way!