Michael Coventry ’92

Major: United States history, with a minor in sociology

Now: Visiting assistant professor of communication, culture and technology program, Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.; Starting in the fall, he will teach full-time in Georgetown’s interdisciplinary master’s program.

What are the most challenging and enjoyable aspects of your job?

I enjoy working with teachers who take student learning seriously and who see their work as having a larger social purpose. Working with students who are willing to experiment and take risks is also a highlight. I am especially pleased to be currently – although not permanently – installed in a multidisciplinary department where I have the freedom to explore broad topics from multiple disciplinary and theoretical perspectives.

How has your Goshen College experience shaped and prepared you for what you are doing now?

I definitely enjoy a position in the liberal/reform wing of the academy, among a group of people who care about social justice and believe in education as a tool for working towards a better world. This is in direct line with the examples and motivations of many of my Goshen faculty.

What are your vocation and life goals?

I hope to continue to work in higher education reform and innovation. I also would like to pursue research into my teaching, as well as continue more conventional research in my field, which is turn-of-the-century U.S. history.

How has Goshen’s motto, “Culture for Service,” impacted the way you choose to live and pursue your vocational calling?

I feel as though the things I’ve clustered around in my work are in line with the ideals of Goshen College.