This past spring, I had the incredible opportunity to take a course that truly embodied the spirit of Swarthmore College’s commitment to interdisciplinary learning and social impact: PEACE 009; Engaged Scholarship. Co-taught by Professor Jennifer Magee, the Assistant Director of the Lang Center for Civic and Social Responsibility, this class wasn’t just an academic experience—it was an adventure in bridging theory and action.
Centered under the main theme of Engaged Scholarship, we sought to understand the concept, its history, and the interdisciplinary nature of its applicability. Ernest Boyer coined the term “Engaged Scholarship” to describe teaching and research that connects “the university to our most pressing social, civic, and ethical problems” (Boyer, 1996). This course, organized by the Lang Center and faculty from various disciplines, brought together students passionate about linking their academics with real-world action. We explored and promoted ethical intelligence, active yet reflective civic engagement, and innovative solutions to pressing social problems.
From the very first class, it was clear this would be unlike any other course I’d taken. After just two weeks of foundational classes, professors from different fields across Swarthmore visited every class to discuss how their work intersected with the concept of Engaged Scholarship. This interdisciplinary approach highlighted the vast potential for collaboration and innovation in addressing complex social issues. One of the most remarkable aspects of this class was its structure. We met once a week for a three-hour session, allowing us to dive deeply into discussions and activities. On the first and last day, Professor Magee treated us to catered lunches, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
As winter faded and we approached spring, our class moved from the Keith Room to the beautiful front terrace of the Lang Center, where the spring weather and scenic surroundings created an inspiring environment for learning and reflection. It was the perfect setting to engage in thoughtful conversations and develop meaningful connections with my peers and instructors.
A core principle of the course was the recognition that social and political solutions must consider the perspectives of those most directly affected. To this end, our classes were co-instructed by faculty, staff, and community experts from both on and off campus. This collaborative approach ensured that we were not just passive recipients of knowledge, but active participants in its creation.
One of the highlights of the Engaged Scholarship course was the lecture by my favorite invited professor, Professor Atshan. He spoke passionately about Radical Humanization, a concept that emphasizes the importance of recognizing and honoring every individual’s humanity, perspectives, and experiences. Professor Atshan’s talk deeply resonated with me, as it underscored the necessity of listening to and loving one another, even in the face of differences. His insights were not only thought-provoking, but also transformative, inspiring me to delve deeper into the topic for my own presentation.
My presentation on Radical Humanization was situated within the framework of Paulo Freire’s Pedagogy of the Oppressed. Freire’s work advocates for the liberation of oppressed individuals through education that is dialogical and rooted in the lived experiences of the marginalized. By integrating Freire’s ideas, I argued that Radical Humanization requires a commitment to understanding and valuing every perspective, especially those of the oppressed. This approach fosters a more inclusive and compassionate society where love and empathy guide our interactions and solutions to social issues.
Engaged Scholarship at Swarthmore was more than just a course—it was a transformative experience that challenged me to think critically and act thoughtfully. It underscored the importance of connecting academic inquiry with real-world challenges and highlighted the power of interdisciplinary collaboration. As I continue my journey at Swarthmore and beyond, the lessons and experiences from this class will remain a guiding force. Engaged Scholarship has not only deepened my understanding of the world but also strengthened my commitment to making a meaningful impact in my community and beyond. If you ever have the chance to take this course, don’t hesitate. It’s an extraordinary journey that embodies the very best of what Swarthmore has to offer.
