Lori Pierce earned a PhD in American Studies from the University of Hawai'i in 2000. Her areas of research include race and ethnic studies, America in the Jim Crow era and the history of Hawai'i. She teaches in the Liberal Studies program and ABD courses on African American history and racial formation theory.
Teaching philosophy: I believe that developing the ability to think critically and communicate effectively are crucial to success in college and life. Courses in ABD challenge students to question what they see, what the say and what they know. We emphasize personal relationships and a supportive learning community that helps students thrive in challenging circumstances in order to achieve future goals.