Latricia Scriven | Brenau University

Latricia Scriven is a “people person” — always has been, always will be.
It’s what makes her a good teacher.

The Baton Rouge, La., native is an associate professor of math and science at Brenau and is also the department chair.

And the flexibility of a college classroom keeps her smiling and interacting with students.

“I’ve done different age groups,” she said. “I’ve taught middle school and a little bit of high school and dual-enrollment programs. But, I really like this age group and I like the flexibility it gives me as a teacher.”

She sees herself as putting the gloss on the students as they leave for the workforce.

“I think of me as taking them from excellent to extraordinary.”

Why did you choose teaching?
“I have always wanted to teach. I would say I come from a family of teachers on my mom’s side. Ever since I was young I’ve just loved to teach. I’ve loved to teach anything to anyone because I love to see the light bulb moment where a person finally gets it. That excites me.”

Motivation
“I love people. It’s all about relationships. I love my co-workers. Brenau is a great environment. I like the different kinds of people that I meet. I like being a teacher, a mentor, a friend, a guide. I’m passionate about that. I think it’s my people passion ... This is just an avenue to express my people passion.”

Most memorable teaching moment
“The one that immediately comes to mind is when I taught seventh grade. And my class ... was a class that was the most rambunctious set of students I have ever had. And I was new to teaching; I was fresh out of college. ... This particular class I thought hated me. One day I showed up to class and there were no students ... Just as I’m getting ready to fuss and wonder where in the world — and I know students do things like say ‘we’re all going to be tardy together’ — I go outside of the class and three students are wheeling a cart down the hallway and the rest of them running in screaming ‘surprise.’ So, on the cart, instead of A/V equipment there is a cake and goodies and all these things because it was teacher appreciation week. ... That was cool.”

Advice for other teachers
“No matter what happens, no matter what challenges or obstacles you have to face, remember you really are a change agent and lives are at stake and to stay passionate. When you are passionate and have a great energy, that energy and passion transfers to the students. They feel it, they see it, they catch it and then they give it to other people.”