Leading with Vision and Heart

When Dr. Michelle Torregano first visited what was then California University of Pennsylvania, she found herself adapting to a new environment. Coming from New Orleans and working on her doctorate at Penn State, the move to a small southwestern Pennsylvania town represented quite a change. But when she met with faculty members and students during her interview, something clicked. "It just felt really, really comfortable," she recalls. "It felt like a good fit."

Today, Dr. Torregano serves as both Director of the Frederick Douglass Institute and a faculty member in PennWest's Department of Education. Her journey from Frederick Douglass visiting scholar in 2010-2011 to leading the institute represents a full-circle moment that speaks to her dedication to higher education and student success.

In her dual roles, Dr. Torregano works tirelessly to create an inclusive learning environment where students can see themselves represented and engage in authentic dialogue. She brings her experiences as an African American woman from the South into her teaching, challenging students to think critically and embrace different perspectives. "I stand on the shoulders of many who have come before me," she reflects. "Sometimes I'm sharing stories they don't like, telling the truth, and like, 'yes, I am.'"

"It's important for our students to see us on campus and to have that visibility," she explains. "I try to go into the Gold Rush and just sit and just chat." Her approach goes beyond traditional academics, focusing on developing "critical research, being reflective and responsive leaders, and being able to engage in authentic dialog." By creating safe spaces for difficult conversations and encouraging students to step out of their comfort zones, Dr. Torregano is helping shape not just future teachers, but thoughtful, engaged citizens ready to make their mark on the world.

Listen to Dr. Michelle Torregano's story on the Power of PennWest Podcast