Aileen Mootoo-Robertson

THE TEACHER YOU WISH YOU HAD

Aileen Mootoo-Robertson began her career as an instructor of French at Southeastern in 1994 and has valued her experience thus far.

“The essence of Southeastern’s motto is ‘We are caring, creative and encouraging, striving for excellence to build a better future to improve ourselves so we can better the world.’ I am beyond grateful to have had the opportunity to teach in an institution where my objectives as an instructor line up with its vision,” she said. “Imparting excellent instruction, creating a desire to learn the French language and culture, and ultimately inspiring our students to become global citizens are equally important goals for me.”

Mootoo-Robertson said teaching goes beyond merely transmitting information – it is also a platform where students can develop personally and explore the endless possibilities for a successful life. And she has inspired her students along the way.

“Madame Mootoo epitomizes what encompasses a phenomenal teacher. Having cultivated an environment that prioritizes each student’s personal educational experience, it is palpable that she deeply cares about her students,” said Southeastern student Alyssa Thompson. “Her instruction has provided me with the foundation to effectively communicate conversationally abroad, and I have fostered a deeper cultural appreciation from her far-reaching insight. As an educator, her influence is irreplaceable and invaluable. As an individual, she is utterly inspiring.”

Mootoo-Robertson has experience in teaching elementary through university level courses. She has served as the French Dual Enrollment coordinator and has recruited French students for Southeastern. She has spearheaded several French Study Abroad programs in Canada and France, and has volunteered to teach grade school classes, as well as for a retirement community.

At Southeastern, Mootoo-Robertson has been responsible for the Foreign Language Festival, the French Club Advisor, and department coordinator of Black History Month. She also heads the International Night activities for the Department of World Languages and Culture.

Center for Faculty Excellence Educational Technology Specialist Pattie Steib said that Mootoo-Robertson’s commitment to her students, her willingness to go far beyond the norm to ensure their success, and her enthusiasm for delivering the highest-quality instruction possible has made her a center favorite.

“An innovative educator, Aileen chooses the use of technology wisely and is not afraid to learn new applications when she determines they will benefit her students,” Steib said. “She was the first in her department to use the Screencastify plugin for activities and assessments in her French classes, which was later adopted by many of her colleagues.

“Aileen is creative, energetic and understanding,” she continued. “After many years of teaching, she still revises her courses every semester, always striving to offer the very best learning experiences to her students. She is the teacher you wish you had!”