Faculty Friday: Daniel Coble

In this week's edition of Faculty Friday, we are thrilled to highlight the incredible contributions of Dann Coble, an Assistant Professor of English and Department Chair at SUNY Corning Community College. With a genuine passion for teaching and an unwavering dedication to his student's success, Dann has established himself as a highly respected figure on campus. 

What sets Dann apart is his expertise in Media studies and his unwavering passion for teaching. He enthusiastically approaches every class, inspiring his students to embrace the beauty and power of language. His dedication goes beyond the classroom as he consistently goes above and beyond to guide and support his students.

Outside of academia, Dann possesses a diverse set of interests. In the past, he cultivated his skills in martial arts and is also an avid gamer, appreciating challenging puzzles in video games. In this interview, we delve into Dann's hobbies, interests, and background, giving you a glimpse into the multifaceted individual behind the educator. So sit back, relax, and read on to discover more about Dann Coble.

Q: How did you end up at CCC?
A: I began working at CCC in the Spring semester of 2014. I started working here because they were the only school to offer me full time work, which included health insurance. Finding these positions is extremely stressful! It's essentially impossible to make a living, let alone provide for a family, on an adjunct's salary. College's around the country need to respect part-time teaching more by offering a living wage for adjunct teaching, so the system doesn't force people to compete in a lottery for full-time work.

Q: What classes do you teach at CCC?
A: I teach College Composition 1, Support for College Composition 1, Introduction to Mass Media, Rhetoric & Propaganda, Children's Literature, and Public Speaking.

Q: What’s your favorite part of being a faculty member at SUNY CCC?
A: My favorite part of teaching at SUNY Corning is being a part of making students' dreams come true. Honestly, nothing compares to that moment when I run into a student and they are excited about graduating, transferring, or when they found a career in their field and they thank me for helping them along the way (or when they need a recommendation letter and I can take a more active role in helping!).

Q: What's been the best part of your professional career?
A: The best part of my professional career is my time volunteering for the faculty union. I am grateful for working with my peers to advocate for teachers in a society that simply doesn't value them. I only wish we had a union for adjuncts and for staff because they are our most vulnerable positions on campus and need advocacy and protection just as much as full-time faculty do.

Q: What's one thing most people don't know about you?
A: I used to practice Angola Capoeira, Yang style Tai Chi, and Northern 7-Star Praying Mantis Kung Fu. I haven't done any practice since my daughter was born, so I'd probably pull a muscle now though! I can also solve a Rubik's Cube, though not anywhere near as fast as the world record (3.1 seconds!).

Q: What do you like to do during your free time?
A: In my free time, I like to read (a stereotype for English teachers, but yeah), take naps, play video games, and go on long walks. I love to cook too (I'm always on the lookout for new and amazing vegan recipes). I also volunteer as a girl scout troop leader.