2025 Recipient of the Sandra Dwyer Award for Excellence in Teaching
We caught up with Rose Donnelly to learn more about her path to philosophy, her teaching approach, and what this recognition means to her.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself? Where are you from originally, and what brought you to Georgia State?
I am originally from Murray, Kentucky. I got my undergraduate degree at Western Kentucky University (WKU) in Bowling Green, Kentucky. I was not only interested in the fantastic faculty here at GSU but also having the opportunity to teach my own classes.
Was there a specific moment, class, or thinker that sparked your interest in the discipline?
In undergrad, I was originally a biology and chemistry double major with a pre-med concentration. My road to philosophy was not straightforward, but rather by accident. I decided to take a couple of philosophy classes to fulfill some general education requirements. One class in particular, Why Are Bad People Bad?, sparked my interest. My final paper in the class was (a rather scathing) paper against John Kekes’ view of moral responsibility. I received such positive and encouraging feedback on the paper that I was inspired to take more philosophy classes. As someone who never seems to be satisfied with most answers, I was drawn to philosophy because it gives me the opportunity to continue to push myself to finding better answers.
What courses have you taught or assisted with as a Graduate Teaching Assistant?
I am about to teach my fifth section of Introduction to Ethics (PHIL 2030). I also had the opportunity to be a TA for Dr. Cox’s Introduction to Philosophy (PHIL 2010) last spring.
How would you describe your teaching style or approach?
I have a student-centered approach. I center my class on what the students have questions about or want to discuss. I want them to have some control over what we cover in class and feel like they are taking an active role in their learning. I aim as an educator to make learning accessible and a community-oriented experience for all my students.
What do you enjoy most about teaching philosophy?
Building communities. My students have diverse and, sometimes, polarizing ethical beliefs. By being a model of how to listen and respond to students, I aim to create a space where students feel safe and free from judgment to share their ideas. My students learn how to engage with one another respectfully, even when they fundamentally disagree with their classmates. Being able to create this space instilled in me how important it is to prioritize building meaningful relationships and engaging with people of all backgrounds. I saw how, with just a little bit of effort, people with opposing views can listen and learn from each other.
What did receiving the Sandra Dwyer Award for Excellence in Teaching mean to you?
It was extremely validating. I often feel like an imposter, especially when I am teaching, and receiving this award makes me feel like what I am doing in the classroom does have an impact.
I am incredibly thankful for the mentorship I have received from Dr. Phillips over the last year. She has played a crucial role in my development as an educator.
What are your future goals after graduate school?
I am going back to WKU this fall to get a History M.A. Afterwards, I plan to apply out to PhD programs.