The professor in the Psychology Department and Neuroscience program spoke about specific strategies for fostering inclusion and belongingness in neuroscience.
Amy Overman, who is a professor in the Psychology Department and Neuroscience program, and Assistant Dean of Elon College, the College of Arts and Sciences, recently presented a keynote address at the inaugural Neuroscience Teaching Conference. The event was held virtually on July 22-23, 2021.
Overman’s address was titled “Inclusion and Belongingness in Neuroscience.” It focused on the importance of working to increase the representation of diverse scientists in the field of neuroscience, as well as specific strategies that instructors can use to make neuroscience classrooms more inclusive and to foster a sense of belonging in the neuroscience field for all students, particularly those who have been historically excluded and continue to be underrepresented. The talk was attended by over 100 people.
The presentation drew on Overman’s personal experience as a neuroscience researcher and instructor, as well as her extensive experience with faculty development and inclusive excellence.
As assistant dean of Elon College, Overman partners with faculty and staff in seeking and securing external funding to support programs and initiatives that enhance inclusion, equity, and intercultural learning. She is also a former Associate Director of Elon’s Center for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning, and has published scholarly articles on inclusive teaching methods and building belongingness through research mentoring.