Faculty Spotlight:
Dr. Molly West
Dr. Molly West, a University of Tennessee-Knoxville alumna with a background in traditional benchtop sciences, has found her calling in STEAM education. Though she initially pursued a scientific path, it wasn’t until the end of her undergraduate studies and during her master’s program that she discovered her passion for curriculum development and teaching. With guidance from a mentor, she gained experience writing curriculum aligned with state testing standards. This opportunity shaped her understanding of the importance of well-designed educational materials at all levels.
Her expertise led her to develop curricula for organizations such as the Tennessee Department of Health, Tennessee 4-H, and National 4-H before she returned to the college classroom.
“Now, as an educator I aim to instill a passion for agriculture, food, and natural resources (AFNR) in my students while ensuring that all learners have equal opportunities to succeed. I tailor my teaching to accommodate different learning styles and abilities through assorted assignments, evaluations, and content delivery methods.”
In her courses, Dr. West connects students with real-world applications of AFNR, integrating speeches in ALEC 240 and discussion-based and reflective writing assignments in ALEC 150. She employs various assessment strategies to create a welcoming classroom environment—including individual, peer, and instructor-based evaluations. Above all, she strives to make her virtual and in-person classrooms feel like a supportive and welcoming space where students can build connections with their peers. Having experienced a close-knit undergraduate program, she hopes to foster the same sense of community among her students, believing that strong relationships enhance learning and professional growth.
Beyond the classroom, Dr. West has made a meaningful impact by mentoring students and supporting their academic and career goals. She has assisted students in preparing commencement speeches, guided distance education learners in balancing school and home responsibilities, and written recommendation letters for those pursuing graduate school and internship opportunities. One of her most rewarding roles has been serving on the Herbert College of Agriculture (HCA) scholarship committee, where she advocates for students across various disciplines and celebrates their achievements.
“For me, commencement day is the highlight of each semester. Watching students cross the stage and achieve the goals they set as first-year students or struggling juniors is a deeply personal and inspiring experience. I proudly tells my students she will be their loudest cheerleader on graduation day, celebrating their success as if they were my own family.”
Looking ahead, Dr. West sees the teaching and learning landscape evolving alongside technological advancements and shifts in student needs. She believes future educators must embrace innovative instructional design to maintain engagement in face-to-face and asynchronous courses. The traditional whiteboard lecture gives way to interactive, critical-thinking-focused learning experiences that challenge students to engage deeply with the material.
She enthusiastically welcomes these changes, recognizing that today’s students are more driven and capable than ever. Their curiosity and ambition push her to continually refine her teaching, ensuring that every course she leads is dynamic, impactful, and relevant to the evolving world of higher education.