As part of its MTI 20-Year Celebration Speaker Series, TILT was honored to welcome renowned scholar James Paul Gee to Colorado State University on April 3. The event, titled “From ‘I Like’ to ‘I Am’: How Affect and Experience Shape Identity and Learning,” drew a crowd of 60 engaged attendees to the University Ballroom and Lounge.

Gee’s presentation offered a compelling look into how student identities form not through labels, but through meaningful experiences, emotional investment, and social interaction. Drawing on research in neuroscience, embodied cognition, and education, Gee introduced a practical framework showing how learners evolve from initial interests to deep-seated identity commitments—insights with powerful implications for inclusive and engaging teaching across disciplines.

Following the talk, the conversation continued at a vibrant reception where faculty and attendees had the opportunity to ask questions, share reflections, and connect around shared interests in teaching and learning.

If you missed the event or want to revisit the presentation, you can now access the recording and slides below: