Office Space: Dr. Susan Beam, Adjunct Faculty English and Humanities

Written by: Khamelia Henderson '23

The way a person decorates can say a lot about them. In the Office Space series, we go beyond the résumé and get to know York College faculty and staff members through the objects they like to keep close.

Dr. Susan Cherie Beam has been madly in love with stories since she was old enough to hold a book and grasp a pen. Since then, that passion has dominated her life, leading her first into the field of journalism and later, into teaching writing and literature. In 2020, she finished her Ph.D. with a focus on trauma and writing, and presently works as an adjunct faculty member at four institutions, including York College. She is also a freelance professional writer and is currently finishing her first novel. During her free time, she enjoys adventures with her husband, friends, and cats.

1. Stained Glass Lotus Flower

I not only love this piece because it was a gift from my sister, with whom I’m extremely close, but I really appreciate the symbolism of the lotus flower, because it’s something beautiful that grows in mud. I think of it as a good metaphor for the beauty that can come from pushing through challenges.

2. Stacks of Books

I’m a huge reader (obviously!) and have been toting around boxes of books my entire life (moving with me is really fun). I love all kinds of genres, and I’m currently reading The Invention of Murder: How the Victorians Revelled in Death and Detection and Created Modern Crime, by Judith Flanders.

3. Alebrijes

I love traveling, and presently have been to nine countries and 43 states. I’m planning another trip to Mexico this summer, and I usually pick up one of these, which are Mexican folk art depicting fantastic creatures. I’m partial to cat-like ones, since I’m a self-confirmed cat person. 

4. Candle Dug Out Bowl

I find candles really soothing, and last year, my best friend introduced to me a local shop at York’s Central Market which sells amazing candles in great containers. I upcycle them into home décor when I finish burning them.

5. Notepad and Favorite Pen

I type and text pretty much all day long, but I still love connecting with the experience of hand-writing notes and ideas down when working with writing ideas.

6. Air pods

If I’m not reading, I love listening to music, audio books, and podcasts. Current favorites are You’re Wrong About, Maintenance Phase, and If Books Could Kill.