The 2026 – 2028 Center for Engaged Learning Seminar will be led by Aaron Trocki and Amanda Sturgill, with support from the Center’s director, Jessie L. Moore.

Amanda Sturgill, associate professor of journalism at Elon University, is the 2024-2026 Center for Engaged Learning Scholar. Her work with the Center focuses on the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and engaged learning in higher education. She is the author of Detecting Deception: Fighting Fake News, #WeAreAltGov: Inside the Resistance on Social Media, and editor of multiple other works, as well as the host of the UnSpun podcast, which covers news literacy and critical thinking. Amanda previously served as a seminar leader for the 2015-2017 research seminar on Integrating Global Learning with the University Experience. 

Aaron Trocki, associate professor of mathematics at Elon University, was the 2023-2025 Center for Engaged Learning Scholar, focusing on models of assessment and feedback outside of traditional grading assumptions and approaches. He has studied artificial intelligence-supported assessments for learning, which he documented in several CEL blog posts and has presented as conference proceedings. His research interests include technology for teaching and learning and mathematics education.

Seminar participants also will work with three CEL Student Scholars as partners throughout the three years:

Matthew Cornick
Major: Computer Science major
Minors: Cybersecurity, Game Design

Mariama Kindie Jalloh
Major: Public Health
Minor: Biology

Chiebuka Tor is a finance major with a communications minor at Elon University. On campus, he is an Odyssey Scholar, a S.M.A.R.T. program mentor, the Vice President of the African Diaspora of Elon, and an SGA senator for the Love School of Business. Through these roles, he is actively involved in mentorship, leadership, and building community across campus. Outside of academics, Chiebuka is a self-taught day trader and entrepreneur who has launched his own clothing brand, developing skills in financial strategy, branding, and business management. Through his involvement with engaged learning initiatives, Chiebuka hopes to deepen his understanding of how academic knowledge connects to real world application, while continuing to grow as a leader and create meaningful impact both on and off campus.