Teaching

I teach Expository Writing and Argumentative and Research Writing at Middle Tennessee State University AND Remedial Writing at Nashville State University. My teaching style reflects my belief that we must make creativity a part of learning. Allowing students to explore and grow means that they have to feel safe enough to make mistakes, challenge past modes of education, and express their ideas. It takes courage to be creative. My passion is helping students find that courage.

I earned my Master's Degree in English from the Strode Program in Renaissance Studies at the University of Alabama by discovering an unknown 17th Century poet. Despite my love for research and Early Modern Literature, I decided that a PhD was not for me. After graduation, I continued to teach English online for the University of Alabama. (I may be the only person to ever live in Auburn while teaching for Alabama. ) My work in the classroom is a continuation of a deeply held desire to restructure liberal arts education into a force that empowers students to write effectively. I employ classical argument and rhetorical devices in daily writing assignments. I believe that all students have something powerful to share; they only need the proper tools to express those ideas.