Bridgeport resident Janet Krauss, whose creativity, passionate instruction and caring mentorship are not lost on her students, has been named Adjunct Professor of the Year at Fairfield University. Krauss, who will receive her honor at the annual Senior Brunch later this month, has taught English literature and composition for the last 27 years.

"I try to engage them with warmth and humor. I might tell personal stories, for example, that relate to what we're reading," said Krauss, who lives in the city's Black Rock section. "Once we've established a comfort zone, I try out different strategies to engage and motivate them."

It's a strategy that leaves its mark with students.

"I appreciate all that you have done for me and all the great conversations we've had," one student wrote of Krauss' work. "No other teacher at Fairfield has touched my life in the way you have, in and out of the classroom."

Krauss' affiliation with Fairfield University dates back to 1970, when she enrolled in the American Studies program, focusing on American literature. She earned her master's degree in 1973. She also holds a bachelor's degree in English and American Literature from Brandeis University. Krauss began her teaching career at St. Basil College, a theological seminary in Stamford, and returned to Fairfield five years later.

At Fairfield, she instructs undergraduates in composition, literature, creative writing, and poetry, and also teaches "Introduction to Literature" through University College at Fairfield University in the summer. Between semesters, she gives creative writing workshops to first and second graders at her local elementary school, and hosts literary events at Harborview Market in Black Rock.

A year ago, Krauss' book of poems, "Borrowed Scenery," was published by Yuganta Press. Since then, she's done poetry readings in bookstores, libraries, a senior center and a high school, as well as in classes across campus.

"The audience responses to my readings are very gratifying," she said.

Krauss' talents and dedication make her an important part of the English faculty, said Dr. Orin Grossman, Fairfield's academic vice president.

"She has been a wonderful mentor and advisor, as well as a superior classroom instructor, for many students," he said.

On the last day of class, Krauss often asks students to write a self-reflective essay, or one designed to help them recognize their own preconceived ideas. It doesn't happen often, Krauss admitted, "but every once in a while, especially in the diversity class, a student will write, 'You've changed my mind; I now understand that I have a prejudice about that,' and we'll talk about it. If I can leave students with just one thing from my class, that ability to self-reflect would be it."

Posted On: 05-08-2006 10:05 AM

Volume: 38 Number: 241