MCD Faculty Jolan Rivera

A photo of Jolan Rivera, a Carsey School faculty member, teaching a Master in Community Development course

"Genuine, empathetic and passionate people inspire my work."

      ~Jolan Rivera


What is your current research/professional interest? Community development and social justice
In the course(s) that you teach, what are the typical aspects of the student’s coursework you evaluate? Hands-on application of concepts learned in class to real-world settings.
What drove you to teaching? Learning from each other (between and among colleagues and students).
What or who inspires you? Genuine, empathetic and passionate people.
When you were a student, what is one thing you wish you had known? Learning from your peers is as important as learning from your teacher/books.
What advice do you have for your students? Be purposeful in your learning journey; know what you want!
What is the most recent book you read? Gender transformative approaches for food security, improved nutrition and sustainable agriculture – A compendium of fifteen good practices by the United Nations
How do you spend your free time? Traveling and watching sports
What is your greatest passion – professional or personal? Field-based community development work.