Claudia Helena Herrera

Born and raised in Bogotá, Colombia. Wife and mother. B.A. in Political Sciences, Government and International Relations at Universidad de Nuestra Señora del Rosario in Bogotá, Colombia. M.A. studies in Pastoral Ministries. currently a PhD candidate in Practical Theology at St. Thomas University. Focused in the work of Latino/a theology and theological aesthetics. Currently work as a Campus Minister at St. Thomas University in Miami, Florida. I am passionated in researching pastoral plans of action that build bridges for the Latino/a- Hispanic communities of faith and immigrants (newcomers) living in the United States. "My experience as a Latina in US has moved me to put my heart and mind to the pastoral service and academic task of listening to my brothers and sisters Latinos/as whose God will always walk with us in la cotianidad of our journey...how can we build this bridge?" Feliz de ser Colombiana!

Teaching Philosophy - Contemporary Social Thought: A Call to Reflection & Action

My philosophy of teaching reflects an emphasis on the core values of Catholic Social Thought that lead the students to critical thinking and reflection on their own’s faith call to care for the common good and to respond with solidarity to social concerns. Education itself is not just the fulfillment of intellectual knowledge to be used for one’s benefit or in the job market. Rather, it must be an extraordinary tool that generates social change and transformation. The goal is to mentor students and lay people, thus, they can identify their gifts and talents that can be used towards the common good. Every student is unique and he/she brings an original voice to the conversation. It is my hope that every voice must be respectfully lifted up and not silenced, so we can learn from each other. Faith, discipline, strength and compassion are key virtues that must be cultivated in the teaching/learning process. As a professor it is my goal that students become leaders and use their knowledge to the service of the human family and the society in concrete plans of actions.

Hobbies: Zumba, watching movies with family and culinary...