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Alissa Broom teaches composition, creative writing and select literature courses, with an emphasis on creating student-centered classrooms built around active engagement, collaboration and lively discussion. She believes students learn best when they have a meaningful voice in the classroom and understand themselves as active participants in the learning process.

As an instructor, Broom also believes that good teaching requires a willingness to learn from her students. The diverse backgrounds and experiences they bring to the classroom continually shape her own understanding of writing, literature and education. She is especially interested in creating opportunities for students to take ownership of their learning through discussion, collaboration, experimentation and creative work.

Originally from Flagstaff, Arizona, Broom has called the Grand Valley home for about a decade. She loves the phenomenal outdoor access this beautiful region offers and especially enjoys hiking and summer rafting adventures. Broom and her husband share their home — and most of the furniture — with two very spoiled dogs, Frodo and Leia.

Broom has more than 15 years of teaching experience across college composition, creative writing, literature, public speaking and adult education. Her teaching experience spans traditional university classrooms as well as community-based education, including six years working with adult learners in GED preparation, English language arts and college and career readiness. These experiences have shaped her commitment to accessible, student-centered instruction and to meeting students where they are while maintaining high expectations for their growth.

As a writer and educator with an MFA in Creative Writing, she brings an active creative practice into the classroom. Broom's experience writing fiction and creative nonfiction informs her teaching of craft, revision, voice, narrative and the writing process. Across disciplines, she emphasizes active learning, collaboration, discussion and helping students develop confidence in their own ideas and voices.

Alissa Broom's curriculum vitae

Selected Publications

Me and Medusa Go to the Fair, a poem: Harmony Magazine, 2012

Cankles in the Kitchen, a poem: Harmony Magazine, 2012

PMS Poem, a poem: ZAUM Magazine, 2012

“Reputable Vaginal Maintenance,” a nonfiction humor piece: Polaris Magazine, 2011

“Ashes to Oranges,” an excerpt from a novel in progress: Blue Moon Literary & Art Review, 2011

“A Meaningful Discussion with My Internal Organs,” a nonfiction humor piece: Hobo Pancakes, 2010

Fat: The New Flirty, a poem: Burner Magazine, 2010