We had the good fortune of connecting with Professor Xavier R. Segura and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Professor Xavier R., can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
Throughout my fulfilling career as a professor in higher education, I have had the privilege of gaining a wealth of knowledge and experiences that have profoundly shaped my understanding of the most crucial lessons in my field. As I reflect on my journey, several key pillars have emerged as the foundation of my career, each one significantly enhanced and refined through the accumulation of wisdom and practice.

Cultivating Relationships & Partnerships

First and foremost, building robust relationships and fostering collaboration have become the cornerstone of my professional endeavors. By diligently cultivating meaningful connections with students, colleagues, and industry professionals, I have been fortunate to unlock a treasure trove of invaluable opportunities for my students and forge enduring partnerships that greatly enrich the learning experience. This lesson resonates with clarity, underscoring the transformative power of collaboration within the higher education community. It extends far beyond mere mentorship, creating a network of empowered individuals united in their pursuit of knowledge and progress.

Balance

Another critical lesson that my career has continually taught me is the art of balancing priorities. As a professor, I am constantly faced with a multitude of responsibilities, from teaching and research to administrative tasks and personal commitments. Through navigating this intricate balancing act, I have come to recognize the paramount importance of effective time management, thoughtful prioritization, and self-care. By striving for a harmonious equilibrium, I have not only safeguarded a healthy work-life balance but also mitigated the risks of burnout. This ensures that I consistently bring my best self to each endeavor, fueling excellence and unwavering dedication.

Mental Health & Self Care

Moreover, my career has impressed upon me the crucial significance of prioritizing mental health. In the demanding realm of higher education, where the pressures of academic rigor and professional responsibilities can be overwhelming, it is vital to acknowledge and prioritize our well-being. I firmly believe that a healthy mind is the foundation upon which successful careers and fulfilling lives are built.

Recognizing the importance of mental health, I actively promote self-care and emotional well-being among my students and colleagues. I emphasize the significance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle, practicing mindfulness, and seeking support when needed. By fostering a culture that values mental health, we create an environment where individuals feel safe and supported, enabling them to thrive academically, personally, and professionally.

As a professor, I strive to lead by example, openly discussing the challenges and stresses we may face and encouraging open dialogue about mental health. I advocate for the destigmatization of seeking help and emphasize the importance of accessing available resources, such as counseling services and support networks. By prioritizing mental health, we enhance our resilience, improve our ability to cope with adversity, and create a supportive community where individuals can flourish.

I also recognize that self-care extends beyond our professional lives. By cultivating a healthy work-life balance and dedicating time to activities that bring us joy and rejuvenation, we recharge our minds and bodies, enhancing our overall well-being. Prioritizing mental health not only benefits us individually but also contributes to a more compassionate and empathetic learning and working environment.

FINDING YOUR WHY

Passion and purpose have illuminated every aspect of my journey. The profound discovery of my calling as a professor and the alignment of my work with my deepest passions have not only brought immeasurable fulfillment but also provided me with the opportunity to make a profound and enduring impact. This invaluable lesson resonates with unwavering clarity, highlighting the utmost significance of pursuing a career path that aligns with one’s intrinsic interests and core values. When we wholeheartedly embrace work that ignites our innermost passions, we not only awaken a relentless motivation and drive for success but also infuse every endeavor with a deep sense of satisfaction and purpose, inspiring those around us.

Community, Culture, & Hertiage

In addition to my dedication to my vocation, my career has instilled in me a profound appreciation for the interconnectedness and indispensability of the community. With a deep understanding of the interdependence of individuals within a broader network, I have come to recognize that our personal growth and achievements are inherently tied to the well-being and progress of the communities we serve. As a devoted professor, I continually seek opportunities to actively engage with and contribute to these communities, planting seeds of positive change and reaping the rewards of collective advancement.

By wholeheartedly participating in community initiatives, generously volunteering my time, and sharing my expertise, I have witnessed the transformative power of collective action. Whether it involves organizing educational events, collaborating with local organizations, or serving as a mentor to aspiring professionals, I firmly believe that giving back and investing in our community is not only a responsibility but also a profound source of personal fulfillment. As we strengthen and uplift our communities, we are simultaneously strengthened and uplifted, embarking on an inspiring reciprocal journey that intertwines our personal growth and successes with the flourishing and triumphs of those around us.

Furthermore, my engagement with diverse communities has exposed me to a kaleidoscope of cultures and perspectives that infuse our society with unparalleled vibrancy. This profound understanding has not only enriched my own knowledge and broadened my worldview but has also empowered me to create inclusive learning environments where students from diverse backgrounds feel genuinely seen, valued, and empowered. Embracing diversity in all its resplendent forms not only expands our intellectual horizons but also fosters an atmosphere where every student can flourish and realize their full potential. Within these inclusive spaces, we unlock the collective potential of our communities, igniting the flames of progress and paving the way for meaningful, transformative change.

Moreover, community engagement has provided me with priceless opportunities for collaboration and partnership. By seamlessly weaving together the wisdom and resources of community members, industry professionals, and fellow educators, I have harnessed the collective genius and tackled the challenges that face higher education with unwavering determination. These collaborative endeavors have yielded groundbreaking teaching methodologies, innovative research projects, and transformative initiatives that have made a lasting impact on both our local and global communities, propelling progress and nurturing the seeds of a brighter future for all.

‘Student-First’ Approach & Being the Role Model

A student-centered approach lies at the very core of my teaching philosophy. Recognizing and honoring the unique needs, learning styles, and aspirations of each student is vital in fostering a positive and impactful educational experience. By providing personalized attention and unwavering support, I strive to empower my students to unlock their boundless potential, cultivating an environment where growth and achievement flourish unimpeded.

The profound impact educators can have on their students cannot be overstated. My unwavering commitment to mentoring students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, reflects the transformative power of education. Through empathetic guidance and unwavering support, I endeavor to break down barriers, empower individuals, and shape a future that brims with promise and opportunity for all.

Resilience and unwavering perseverance have emerged as essential virtues in navigating the challenges inherent in higher education. With an unwavering belief that setbacks are merely stepping stones on the path to growth, I have embraced obstacles as catalysts for transformation. This invaluable lesson reminds me to approach challenges with determination, leveraging adversity as a springboard to achieve extraordinary results that transcend all expectations.

A deep-rooted passion for teaching has been a constant driving force behind my every endeavor. By consistently maintaining a genuine interest in the success and well-being of my students and fostering a contagious enthusiasm for lifelong learning, I strive to ignite within them an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and a fervor to actively engage, explore, and cultivate their own passions. This unwavering dedication to the craft of teaching creates an environment where knowledge flourishes, minds blossom, and students emerge as empowered agents of change.

Open to Feedback & Improvement

Lastly, my career has underscored the supreme significance of continuous improvement and the indispensable role of feedback in propelling us toward greatness. By actively seeking input from students, colleagues, and mentors, I have embraced a growth mindset that enables me to refine my teaching methods, enhance my effectiveness, and create a positive learning environment that nurtures progress. This commitment to ongoing growth and self-reflection propels me toward the pinnacle of excellence, ensuring that I continuously evolve as an educator, inspiring both my students and myself with an insatiable thirst for knowledge and an unwavering dedication to lifelong learning.

In essence, my career as a professor has provided me with a tapestry of invaluable lessons that have enriched my professional journey and shaped my identity. These lessons, etched indelibly into the core of my being, serve as guiding stars, illuminating my path and infusing every endeavor with purpose, passion, and an unwavering commitment to the transformative power of education and community engagement. As I move forward, driven by these profound insights, I remain humbly dedicated to the pursuit of excellence, leveraging the collective potential of our communities to foster a brighter and more equitable future for all.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
At the core of my journey as a young professor lies an unwavering commitment to education, community, diversity, equity, and inclusion. I firmly believe that education must go beyond the confines of the classroom and extend into the communities we serve. By actively engaging with local organizations, collaborating with community leaders, and involving students in meaningful projects, we can bridge the gap between theory and practice, empowering students to become agents of positive change.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just buzzwords to me; they are guiding principles that shape my approach as an educator. I firmly believe in the inherent value of diverse perspectives and experiences. Within the realm of criminal justice and law, it is imperative to acknowledge and address systemic biases and disparities that exist. By creating an inclusive learning environment where every student feels seen, valued, and empowered, we can foster a new generation of justice professionals who are attuned to the needs of diverse communities and dedicated to dismantling systemic injustices.

One aspect of my journey that profoundly shapes my connection with students is the transformative experience of serving as a veteran. Through my time in the military, I have gained a profound understanding of sacrifice, resilience, and the power of camaraderie. This experience not only equips me with a unique perspective but also allows me to connect with students who share similar backgrounds or have a keen interest in understanding the complexities of the military justice system.

In the classroom, I leverage this firsthand knowledge to foster a deeper understanding of the intricate intersections between law, justice, and the experiences of veterans. By encouraging students to critically examine the multifaceted dimensions of the justice system, we delve beyond textbooks and engage in meaningful discussions that highlight the realities faced by those who have served. Through these conversations, students gain valuable insights into the challenges, dilemmas, and triumphs that shape the lives of veterans, empowering them to become advocates for justice and change.

Moreover, my experience as a veteran fuels my commitment to cultivating a classroom environment that embraces empathy, respect, and inclusivity. I understand the importance of creating a safe space where students from all backgrounds feel heard, valued, and understood. By acknowledging the diverse perspectives and lived experiences within our classroom, we create an environment conducive to open dialogue, where students can share their thoughts, challenge assumptions, and broaden their horizons.

I am genuinely touched by the transformative power of education in the lives of my students. Witnessing their growth, both personally and academically, is the greatest reward I could ask for. As a young professor, I am passionate about creating an environment where students feel inspired, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. By fostering a sense of belonging and providing mentorship, I strive to guide students on their unique journeys, helping them realize their passions and develop the skills needed to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

In conclusion, my transformative journey as a young professor, coupled with my experiences as a veteran, has profoundly shaped my perspective on the significance of community, passion, and purpose. This amalgamation of roles has instilled in me a profound understanding of the interconnectedness between education and social progress. With unwavering dedication, I strive to inspire my students to embrace these core values and to harness their potential as catalysts for transformative change within the realm of law and the criminal justice system.

By creating an inclusive and empowering learning environment, my genuine belief is that we can provide students with the necessary tools to challenge prevailing societal norms, advocate for justice, and contribute to the creation of a more equitable world. It is through this collective effort that we can forge a lasting impact on the lives of individuals and communities, leaving behind a profound and enduring legacy of positive change.

In essence, my commitment as an educator goes beyond the transmission of knowledge; it is a commitment to fostering critical thinking, empathy, and a sense of responsibility in my students. I firmly believe that by nurturing their intellectual curiosity and cultivating their understanding of the intricate dynamics within the criminal justice system, we can empower them to question the status quo, challenge systemic injustices, and champion the rights of marginalized communities.

Moreover, I recognize that building a vibrant and inclusive community within the educational sphere is paramount to fostering meaningful connections and nurturing the growth of each student. By cultivating an environment where diversity is celebrated and different perspectives are respected, we create an atmosphere that encourages collaboration, empathy, and a profound understanding of the power of collective action. It is within this context that students can truly thrive, develop their unique talents, and embrace their potential to effect positive change.

In conclusion, my journey as a young professor and veteran has imbued me with a deep sense of purpose and an unwavering commitment to shaping future generations of advocates for justice. Through my role as an educator, I aspire to inspire and equip students with the knowledge, skills, and mindset necessary to challenge the status quo, dismantle oppressive systems, and cultivate a more just and equitable society. Together, as a unified force, we have the capacity to leave a remarkable legacy, one defined by the transformative impact we make on the lives of individuals and communities alike.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting Tucson for a week, I would ensure they have the best time ever by showing them a diverse range of experiences and exploring the city’s vibrant culture:

Places to Eat:

– Breakfast at a local favorite, Seis Kitchen (Located at Mercado San Agustin), known for its mouthwatering breakfast burritos and freshly brewed coffee.

– Lunch at American Eat Co. (Located on 4th Ave), where they can indulge in the flavors of southwestern cuisine and savor delicious local specialties, with a wide array of diverse food choices!

– In the evening, head to Barrio Brewery for a taste of Tucson’s craft beer scene and enjoy a relaxed evening with live music and a wide selection of local brews.

Things to do:

– Explore the lively Mercado San Agustin, a vibrant marketplace featuring local vendors, food stalls, and shops selling unique artisanal products.

– Explore the historic Fourth Avenue district, known for its unique shops, boutiques, and art galleries. We can browse through eclectic stores, discover local artists’ work, and soak in the artistic atmosphere.

– Spend the morning exploring the magnificent Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, where they can experience the diverse desert ecosystem and encounter fascinating wildlife.

– Take a scenic hike in the breathtaking Sabino Canyon, immersing ourselves in the stunning natural beauty of the desert landscape.

– Explore the historic Mission San Xavier del Bac, a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture and a significant cultural landmark.

– Spend the evening in downtown Tucson, strolling along Congress Street and enjoying the lively atmosphere. We can visit unique bars, catch a live performance at a local theater, or even try our luck at a nearby casino.

– After our exploration of downtown Tucson, let’s head to the Maverick King of Clubs for some authentic two-stepping and country music. This iconic venue is known for its lively atmosphere, welcoming locals, and energetic dance floor.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, with heartfelt humility and gratitude, I humbly dedicate this shoutout to the individuals who have played an instrumental role in shaping my journey and supporting me along the way. My gratitude knows no bounds as I express my deep appreciation to my beloved parents, Celina and Javier. Their unwavering love, guidance, and sacrifices have been the bedrock of my foundation, instilling in me the values of perseverance, integrity, and compassion. It is through their unwavering support that I have been able to pursue my dreams with unwavering determination.

I am equally grateful for the constant support and encouragement from my sister, Ibette, whose unwavering belief in my abilities has been a constant source of motivation. I am truly blessed to have her by my side, cheering me on every step of the way. To our wider family circle, including Ana, Nani and Tati, Nana and Tata Segura, I extend my profound appreciation for their love, encouragement, and inspiration. Their unwavering presence has enriched my life immeasurably.

To my mentors, whose wisdom, guidance, and unwavering belief in my potential have propelled me forward, I am forever indebted. Paulina, Nate, Derek, Dean, Amanda, Dr. Dore, Tariq, Dr. Fernandez, Dr. S. Williams, Dr. Treya Allen, & countless others have generously shared their expertise, invested their time and energy, and empowered me to reach new heights. Their mentorship has not only shaped my intellectual growth but has also instilled in me the values of lifelong learning, resilience, and the importance of giving back to others.

I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the students, faculty, and staff at the University of Arizona, Pima Community College, and Northern Arizona University. Their unwavering dedication to education, their diverse perspectives, and their shared passion for learning have created an enriching environment where growth and achievement flourish. It is through our collective efforts and collaboration that we can create a positive impact in our communities and beyond.

I would like to extend my heartfelt acknowledgment to the School of Government and Public Policy at the University of Arizona. This esteemed academic institution has been instrumental in shaping my understanding of public service, governance, and policy-making. The School of Government and Public Policy has provided me with a comprehensive and rigorous education that has equipped me with the knowledge, skills, and ethical framework necessary to navigate the complex challenges of the public sector. The faculty members at the School have been exceptional mentors, guiding me through insightful coursework, engaging discussions, and hands-on experiences that have deepened my understanding of public policy issues and their impact on society.

I am grateful for the School’s commitment to fostering critical thinking, ethical leadership, and civic engagement. The curriculum and extracurricular activities offered by the School have not only broadened my intellectual horizons but have also encouraged me to actively contribute to my community and make a positive difference in the world.

However, it is to the extraordinary children, families, and veterans residing on the vibrant Southside of Tucson and within the Sunnyside Community that my deepest dedication lies. Their unwavering resilience, determination, and unwavering pursuit of their dreams inspire me profoundly. In the face of challenges, they continue to persevere, showcasing the strength of the human spirit. It is their unwavering commitment to reaching for the stars that fuels my own drive to make a positive difference in their lives and the wider community. Their stories of triumph and resilience serve as a constant reminder of the transformative power of hope, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams.

So, here’s to you, the fearless dreamers, the relentless doers, and the unwavering believers. May your extraordinary journey be filled with boundless joy, profound growth, and immeasurable fulfillment. May we continue to uplift and support one another, for together, we can create a world where dreams know no bounds.

Instagram: @x.seguraaa

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/xsegura94/

Image Credits
Photo Credit: (University of Arizona & Professor, Xavier R. Segura)

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.