Dr. Ashlyn Strozier is entering her third year as a Lecturer in the Department of Religious Studies at Georgia State University. As a lecturer, she teaches hundreds of GSU students every semester, introducing many of these students to Religious Studies for the first time. Her classes never fail to encourage student excitement and enthusiasm! In this interview, we learn more about Dr. Strozier, her teaching methodology, and what new courses she has in the works.
Introduction- Where did you go to school? What are your areas of specialization?
I am a proud graduate of a historically black college/university. I received my BA from Fort Valley State University. I am a fourth-generation wildcat and I graduated 30 years after my mother. I received my first master's from Georgia State in Early Childhood Education focusing on cultural pedagogy. I received my Ph.D. from Claremont Graduate University in Religion, specializing in Women's Studies.
What drew you to Religious Studies?
I grew frustrated with the educational system. I had "big" questions concerning black women, sexuality, reproductive health, ethics, motherhood, and decision-making. I went to the seminary seeking answers to my questions. My ethics professor read my paper concerning the moral dilemmas of women clergypersons and told me I needed to consider the Ph.D.
How long have you taught at GSU and in the Department of Religious Studies? What were you doing before you joined the department?
I am entering my third year at GSU. Before GSU, I was completing my Ph.D., and working full-time as a special education administrator at a state charter school. I also had a teaching fellowship at the Interdenominational Theological Center with the founding mother of womanism, Dr. Jacquelyn Grant.
What are your favorite classes and lessons to teach to students? What do you see students get most excited about?
Teaching is my passion, so engaging with students around any subject gives me joy.
Can you tell me more about the types of projects you have your students work on? What skill sets are they developing?
Students work on digital projects such as podcasts, TED talks, documentaries, children's books, and diverse writing such as op-eds, theoretical film analysis, and interpretative essays. I am focusing on developing religious literacy and soft skills. Religious literacy focuses on skills students need to work in the 21st century, such as solidarity, empathy, and listening. Students are focusing on soft skills that can be transferred to a resume such as op-ed writing, synthesizing, podcasting, etc.
Are you working on any new courses or lectures that you’re particularly excited about?
I am always excited about a new semester because new students evoke new energy in a course. I am working on a new course that is a response to the Dobbs decision. The course focuses on the body, public policy, and religion. I am also trying to get a course added to the curriculum on rape culture and the intersection of pop culture, social media, and religion. I recently responded to the topic of Reproductive Violence at the University of Chicago. This summer I am hosting my first epic lab focusing on black women's maternal/reproductive health crisis. I will have a team of undergraduates that will learn about ethnographic research and producing digital humanities projects.
What’s something memorable that has happened in a class?
Something memorable in class... that seems like every class. I think a memorable moment was when students in RELS 3270 were able to discuss an extremely controversial current event respectfully. Students were so engaged, the conversation went into the hallway, in the elevator, and out to Marietta Street. Those are moments when you know students are being sparked to think and consider other perspectives. This spark is what changes students and moves them to become change agents.
Why would you encourage someone to major in Religious Studies?
Majoring in Religious Studies has advantages that other humanities degrees lack. This major at GSU provides students with strong critical thinking, writing, and reading skills. Topics are presented intersectionally to show how disciplines and topics are related. Students also learn real-world information for working with others, while developing 21st-century soft and hard skills. Students need to be empathic, and able to listen, while also being able to use technology to innovate. I think our program accomplishes this task.
Where do you see Religious Studies outside the job? (media, daily life, etc)
Religious Studies is everywhere. Religion is everywhere in our world, but we often don't name it. It influences public policy and personal decisions. It is one of the most debatable and controversial topics while still considered one of the most sacred.
What other interests and hobbies do you have outside of work?
Outside of work, I am an avid sports fan. I am a devout Atlanta Falcons and Braves fan. I enjoy both professional and college basketball. My favorite basketball players are Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. I love to cook and bake. I spend lots of time with my extended family. I am also an advocate for children with special needs.