Walk into one of Mary Ann Grim’s classes, and you’ll feel it right away.
For her, it’s more than just a lecture. Whether she’s diving into women’s history or leading student groups, Mary Ann is all about connection and advocacy when it comes to her students.
Since joining FRCC in 2008, Mary Ann, a full-time faculty member, has left a lasting impact on students through her courses in history and women’s studies, as well as through her leadership in student organizations.
“I love my students. I enjoy learning new things and I’m learning new ways to connect with my students,” says Mary Ann, who has recently started teaching more online courses in addition to her on-campus classes. (Online classes have become increasingly popular with students over the years—with more than half of FRCC students now taking them.)
Making Connections in a Virtual World
One of Mary Ann’s most impactful strategies for online teaching is personalized communication. She frequently records audio feedback and encouragement videos that go beyond typed responses—reaching students in ways that feel human.
Since the college offers more than 500 online classes and even some fully online programs, all FRCC faculty members receive training on how to make their teaching most effective for the online learning environment. But Mary Ann takes it to the next level.
“I leave a lot of feedback,” she adds. “I get excited about history, and I get excited about their work. I think it comes across to them.” She finds that even small gestures like hearing a real voice or seeing a friendly face can make a big difference in helping students feel seen and supported in a digital learning environment.
The Heart of the Work
And if you ask Mary Ann, the best part of her job is simple:
“Working with the students. That’s an easy question,” she says. “Whether it’s online, in person, in our feminist club or just helping students succeed and finding things that light them up.”
She’s especially passionate about helping students who are struggling but motivated to succeed.
“I really like working with students when they want to work hard and they want to overcome whatever it is,” she shares. “As an example, maybe they lost their job. If they communicate with me, I’ll try to help them out. I want to get them to that A or that B or whatever it is they want.”
And sometimes, her favorite victories are the ones that come with a change in perspective:
“I really love when a student says on the first day, ‘I don’t really like history,’ and then by the end of the semester, they’re like, ‘History is cool!’” she adds.
Big Things Ahead
Mary Ann co-leads the Feminist Uprising Collective Club at FRCC—one of more than 40 active student organizations at the college. She is excited to see its momentum growing this fall.
“Things are happening in terms of women’s rights and minority rights right now, and I love to see students getting involved, standing up and speaking out. Helping them do that and find their voice is why I’m always excited about Feminist Club,” she says.
“The spring is always my favorite time. I chair the committee that puts on Take Back the Night to speak out against sexual violence. I always look forward to that.”
Take Back the Night is the oldest worldwide movement to stand against sexual violence. The event typically includes guest speakers, music, food and activities, as well as a candlelight vigil.
Advice for the FRCC Community
To new students:
“I would tell students that your professors and instructors are here for you,” she says. “Reach out to them, email them, stop by their office. We’re here for you. Getting to know your professor really helps student success.”
To new faculty and staff:
“Just to get to know your co-workers and mingle outside of your department. I think the more we work together collaboratively, the more successful the whole school will be.”
A Former Student’s Perspective
And Colorado state Sen. Katie Wallace, FRCC alumna who currently represents Colorado’s 17th Senate district, said Mary Ann Grim “has had profound and sustained positive impacts on me.”
“An enduringly kind and brilliant professor, Mary Ann supported me through countless points in my life and helped ensure that I was able to balance both my education and a career in politics and government, simultaneously. Her classes provided me with a broad, meaningful grasp of our nation’s and world’s most important historical moments, without which I would not be the leader I am today,” she shares.
Impact Outside the Classroom
During her time at FRCC, Katie joined a group of students—mentored by Mary Ann—in founding FRCC’s first Take Back the Night.
“This event has continued its impact and grown so much further than what we ever could have dreamed, solely because of professor Grim’s tenacity and ceaseless work to ensure it takes place each year,” Wallace said. “This space for students’ voices and experiences creates not just a safer campus, but a safer community for each of us.”
“At a time in our nation when nothing could be more important than to understand and learn from our history, professors like Mary Ann are indispensable. The lessons she imparts are timeless, and I have no doubt she will continue to help mold people and communities that are thoughtful, informed and ready to make positive change for each of us.”
The Spirit of FRCC
In closing, Mary Ann’s work embodies the spirit of FRCC: thoughtful and student-centered. She’s dedicated to not only fostering connection, but showing students that yes, history is cool.
One Last Fun Fact?
“I love socks!” she says “I have a huge collection. My partner said it is a borderline ‘problem!’ I think they are one of the most important parts of any look!”
