Education

• PhD in Rhetoric and Professional Communication, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico, 2001
• MA in Professional Writing and Rhetoric, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, Texas, 1997
• BA in English and American Literature at University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, Texas, 1995

Why I Teach

Early in the semester, I try to establish a personalized, shared environment so that students feel that they are learning in a community of friends. It is also important to balance rigor with enjoyment. Students are expected to perform at a high level and have a positive attitude toward learning, but they are also encouraged to have fun learning together.

I teach as a way to contribute as well as to prepare our future leaders. I teach to help each student take another step toward fulfilling his or her potential.