Author: Sara Kafashan

Sara Kafashan, PhD, has worked in post-secondary education since 2009. With a Master’s in Neuroscience and Cognitive Applied Sciences and a PhD in Applied Social Psychology, she has prior teaching experience within the field of Social Sciences. Sara brings a lens of equity, diversity, and inclusion, and a focus on wellness strategies, to teaching and learning. She has expertise in inclusive and accessible educational practices, including curriculum development, resource creation, and engagement with various campus stakeholders.

Best Practices for Faculty to Support Students in Distress or in Crisis

Reading Time: 4 minutesIn this post, you will learn about best practices to support students in distress or in crisis. Some of the information here is based on More Feet on The Ground, a recommended, free, 25-minute online campus mental health training available to anyone working in post-secondary education. Setting Students Up For Success Especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, students face numerous challenges...

Reacting and Responding to Student Emails, Especially During End-of-Semester Stress

Reading Time: 5 minutesBy Sara Kafashan and Kathryn Brillinger Please email teachingandlearning@conestogac.on.ca with additional scenarios to add. The end of semester can be a particularly stressful and busy time for anyone in a post-secondary institution. With final exams and assignments for students, as well as marking and course wrap-up responsibilities for faculty, it’s common to feel (Zoom) fatigued and low on time, energy, and resources. One pertinent issue that tends...