Miami University psychology professor Brooke Cropenbaker presented a lecture, "Connect For: The Game of Life,” on Thursday, Oct. 15 in the Psychology Building, and it was memorable in multiple ways.

The special occasion came in front of students, faculty, staff, and her family, while she was honored as the College of Arts and Science’s Distinguished Educator of the Year. Gaile Pohlhaus, an associate dean within the college, introduced her while presenting her framed certificate.

Cropenbaker began the lecture by explaining the uncertainty she felt moving from Missoula, Montana, to Oxford, Ohio, to pursue her career. Excitement for unique opportunities overtook this fear. 

“When we open ourselves to meaningful relationships, we create networks of support that empower us to step into the unknown,” said Cropenbaker. 

Peer connections and belonging in relation to motivation and purpose became the foundational theme of Cropenbaker’s discussion. She explained her classroom procedures to ensure students are enriched not only academically, but socially. One of these procedures includes simply interacting with a classmate.

“I asked them to turn to a neighbor, exchange contact details and introduce themselves,” said Cropenbaker. “And to emphasize why this matters, I tell them the story of who became my best friend, confidante, my longest friend– all because I sat next to her in college.” Cropenbaker said this process will not only build a support network, but build motivation to show up to class every day.

In addition to finding motivation through peer engagement, Cropenbaker emphasized the role of unlocking joy in life through play personalities. 

“Play is intrinsically rewarding: it generates optimism, seeks out novelty, makes perseverance fun, leads to mastery, and gives the immune system a boost,” said Cropenbaker. 

Furthermore, Cropenbaker highlighted her efforts in community engagement in Miami’s Center for Teaching Excellence and Advancing Teaching Scholars. She led and attended numerous workshops and faculty learning communities through this, enhancing her growth as an educator and collaborator. 

Additionally, Cropenbaker engaged the audience through prompts of self-reflection and active participation. This process reflected her usual procedures in Miami classes–turning and talking to a partner and sharing insights with the class. 

Finally, she left the audience with a reflective message. “I think the true heart of education and indeed of a life well lived is the intentional cultivation of human connection,” said Cropenbaker. “We nurture resilient, compassionate citizens, equipped to navigate the game of life together.”