Heather L. Moulton
Research Topic
Community college composition, DEI, anti-supremacist pedagogies
Dr. Moulton has been teaching first-year composition for 20 years. She is a proponent of liberatory, anti-racist, critical thinking focused education. When she joined Prescott College in 2021, being accepted into the Doctoral Program for Sustainability Education, she found a family of like-minded people who could guide her to become a stronger advocate for social justice through her teaching practices. Dr. Moulton’s dissertation work focused on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in first-year composition courses (and across curriculum). She chose to complete a three-article dissertation, and all three articles were published in open access journals. She also shared her research through professional development workshops at her college and at a national conference for teachers of English. She completed her dissertation in December 2024. Dr. Moulton will continue teaching full-time and fighting the good fight in hopes of making education more accessible and equitable for all students.
Q&A
Two of my dear friends applied for and were accepted into the doctoral program; they encouraged me to apply as I had wanted to attain a PhD. After meeting with Prescott folks, and in particular speaking with Dr. Emily Affolter, I realized my goal could become a reality, and I was accepted into the program.
My research focuses on progressive teaching and learning praxis (i.e. theory in practice) using culturally sustaining and disruptive pedagogies.
The best features of the doctoral program are the faculty who teach the classes. They are a wonderfully inclusive group of scholars who support and encourage the students. Being able to complete the program online was also a benefit.
My biggest challenges were overcoming self-doubt and being worried I did not have the capacity or the material to complete a dissertation. My fears were always allayed by the supportive faculty, and Dr. Abby Yost suggested I do a deep dive into my own pedagogy as a focus for my dissertation work. I overcame the challenges through the support of the faculty and friends.
I have been teaching first-year composition at a community college for 20 years. I intend to continue teaching, and I know I’m a better instructor because of my time at Prescott College.
I enjoy traveling, reading, and spending time with family, friends, and furkids.
My advice to prospective doctoral students: JUST DO IT! You are stronger than you think and capable of doing great things. The compassionate and reassuring environment at Prescott College is what you need accomplish your dream.