I have taught literature and writing courses at NCU since Spring 2003, only a few years after moving to Eugene from my native South. Although my academic specialization is in World Literature, particularly the contemporary novel, I often draw upon my personal background and family history in presentations with my colleague Dr. Mick Bollenbaugh, whose family lineage is equally lengthy, but unfortunately on the opposite side of the War Between the States. Over the past several years, we have established a tradition of presenting our differing regional perspectives in venues ranging from classes to alumnae banquets. The debates are great fun, conducted with great humor and deep respect, and received with encouraging enthusiasm by the campus community.
My research interests in World Literature are supported by the literature courses I teach and the interdisciplinary (IDS) courses I team-teach, again with Dr. Bollenbaugh. I have been presenting at least one academic paper each year, usually including the regional Conference on Christianity and Literature. I am particularly fascinated currently with literature inspired by the 9/11 tragedy and how novels attempt to transform the unimaginable into the imaginable, ironically, through fiction.
I extend my passion for teaching in the local community as a Human Rights Commissioner for the city of Eugene, the chair of the commission’s Education and Outreach Committee, and as a member of a speaker’s bureau on racism and white privilege. I usually speak or lead workshops in schools, churches, and businesses 4-6 times each year. My efforts are directed toward trying help this city that I love become more open and welcoming to all people.
