05/05/2026
Experiential learning is at the heart of what we do in Cornell Human Ecology, and this year, two of our faculty members are being recognized for bringing that approach to life in powerful ways.
Congratulations to Misha Ailsworth, assistant professor of psychology, and Anthony Ong, professor of psychology, on receiving 2026 Creative Teaching Awards from Cornell's Center for Teaching Innovation last week.
This year’s theme, “Local learning experiences outside the classroom,” highlights teaching that connects students with communities, environments, and real-world contexts across Ithaca and beyond.
Misha Ailsworth’s course, Black Girlhood Studies: Rememory, Representation, and Re-Imagination, brings Cornell students into partnership with local middle school classrooms, developing reading guides that center Black girl protagonists and open space for dialogue, reflection and representation.
“I am truly grateful for the opportunity to have my work with local middle school students, educators, and Cornell students honored by the Center for Teaching Innovation," said Ailsworth. "I am excited to continue this work and share the case study widely, to encourage folks to consider how they can incorporate mutual and intentional community-teaching or research partnerships.”
Anthony Ong’s Science of Well-Being course transforms research into lived experience: through “awe walks,” sensory explorations, and community-based activities that invite students to engage with well-being in their everyday environments.
“This award really belongs to my students," said Ong. "Sending students into Cascadilla Gorge or the Ithaca Farmers Market to experience well-being concepts firsthand has transformed not just how they learn but how I teach.”
Through community connection, reflection and hands-on exploration, these courses show what’s possible when learning extends beyond the classroom.
Congratulations to both faculty members on this well-deserved recognition!
Read more about the awardees and their work at https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/04/creative-teaching-awards-celebrate-experiential-learning-community-connections
