Professor
Writing, Lang and Lit, School of
CHBS Building 4307
PO Box 6937
¡Hola! I have taught undergraduate courses on Modern Spanish-American and Latino culture and literature at Radford University since 2007. While my research focuses on unraveling historical-literary contexts, my teaching explores connections between literature and other forms of cultural expression such as journalism, music, food, architecture and cinema. I love sparking curiosity in students and exploring different subjects that challenge and transform them into thinkers capable of challenging and inspiring others and myself. Visit my blog, my podcast and my Academia page for more information on my work and interests!
Spanish for the Professions (SPAN 306): This class is designed primarily to develop the listening, speaking, reading and writing skills of students who wish to use Spanish in professional healthcare contexts such as medicine, nursing, social work, therapy and nutrition. You will compare different health systems, examine the healthcare needs and address the complexity of the Hispanic community in the United States and beyond.
Literary Readings and Creative Writing (SPAN 321): This course introduces students to literary readings in Spanish, while providing an opportunity to learn and practice key elements of creative writing (including detailed description, narration, character development and plot). You'll have a blast developing your Spanish communication skills and stimulating your imagination in this class!
Composition and Translation (SPAN 323): This course prepares students for practical writing skills and strategies to understand Spanish language syntax. You'll learn about the arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences and paragraphs in Spanish. You'll have fun writing news, interviews, personal narratives, reportages and essays!
Latin American Culture Through Cinema (SPAN 336): Here, everything is new or different. You'll gain a deeper understanding of Latin American culture and the films that these countries produce, which differ greatly from Hollywood films. You'll be a detective, investigating history while enjoying a different way of making movies!
Topics in Spanish-American Literature and the Representation of History (SPAN 420): This course studies the literature of the countries of Spanish America from the Colonial Period to Vanguardismo.
Topics in 20th and 21st Century Spanish-American Literature (SPAN 421): A study of the literature of the countries of Spanish America from Vanguardismo to the Contemporary Period.
Curriculum Committee Member: In this role, I ensure that the courses and programs we are offering within the School of Writing, Language and Literature (SWLL) remain innovative and meet students' needs.
Spanish Program Coordinator (Elementary & Intermediate): I help design, facilitate and implement courses (SPAN 111, SPAN 112, SPAN 113, SPAN 221 and SPAN 222) with an emphasis on developing communicative approach methods. Similarly, I work closely with the Foreign Language Lab to implement practical activities led by the lab assistants.
Spanish Program Advisor: I advise students in the Spanish Program to ensure that they are placed in the appropriate language level corresponding to their current proficiency in Spanish as a second language. I also develop a plan for students based on their interests in Peninsular Studies, Latin American Studies or Latinos in the U.S. In addition, I encourage students to participate in our study abroad and internship programs in Spain and in Mérida, Yucatán, México respectively.
Hispanic Heritage Month Organizer: I collaborate with other departments to organize the long-term celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month and other cultural events on campus that broaden students' understanding of Hispanic culture and make Hispanic heritage students feel at home at Radford University. Students typically enjoy a classical guitar recital, tango lessons, a dinner featuring authentic Hispanic cuisine, lectures by significant speakers and a screening of five films at the Ibero-American Film Festival.
Latino Student Alliance Faculty Advisor: In this role, I support the organization and planning of cross-cultural experiences on Radford University's campus.
Spanish Conversation Club Faculty Advisor: I help students coordinate events to develop fluency and confidence, providing them with opportunities to interact with other students and native speakers of Spanish.
Thriller films, traveling, painting to de-stress, and visiting museums of art.