Dr. Angel Acostaā€™s Dissertation Defense: Healing-Centered Education in Practice
In this powerful and deeply reflective dissertation defense, Dr. Angel Acosta explores the role of healing-centered education as a transformative force within schools and communities. Grounded in racial literacy, contemplative inquiry, and culturally responsive pedagogy, the presentation examines how educators can create spaces that support both critical consciousness and collective healing. Drawing from a case study of a professional development series for educators, Dr. Acosta weaves together research, storytelling, spirituality, and lived experience to reimagine what education can become in times of crisis and social transformation.
Through moving dialogue with his dissertation committee, Dr. Acosta reflects on vulnerability, migration, identity, public health, and the emotional realities of teaching and leadership. This recording offers an intimate look at scholarship rooted in care, relationality, and the pursuit of collective liberation.
