Sign of the times
Instructors in the Technical and Scientific Communication (BATSC) program are partnering with instructors of Composition and Rhetoric and the Center for Interactive Media Studies (IMS) to develop a digital curriculum that will extend across disciplines. Through these specialized courses emphasizing theory, composition, and production of multimedia texts, students will learn to develop such forms of multimedia as CD-ROMs, kiosks, dynamic websites and motion media—all of which may draw on words, images, and sounds for their impact.

Independent study
My latest published research investigates the nature of student and teacher authority in the classroom—how to balance the responsibility I have for what goes on in my classroom with giving my students an adequate chance to share what they know and say what they'll learn. My current project investigates the rhetoric of both alternative and traditional medicine. As alternative therapies become more and more popular, I see the American Medical Association responding by modifying their approach to patient treatment and the practice of medicine in general. I am interested in looking at the language of these modifications and discussions.

Team building
I remember one particular year when the students in my class stayed up all night to finish a client project so that it could be delivered on time. Everyone put aside other obligations and pitched in to make it a real team effort. I believe experiences like this give students a sense of what it means to make a real commitment to themselves, to others, and to their work. They also became very close. The experience was wonderful for us all.

Word power
From the professor who helped me overcome a gripping fear while taking my master's exam to the adviser who taught me about the power of language, I was fortunate to be mentored by people who believed in me and taught me valuable lifelong lessons. My dissertation adviser greatly influenced my view of writing; he taught me that rhetoric without ethics is an abuse of power and writers must always consider the resulting impact of their communications on others.

Where it's at
At Miami, I appreciate the absolutely wonderful people I meet and a setting where there are so many cultural events and opportunities to learn something new. My profession also allows me to maintain ties in the private sector while working within an academic environment. By keeping abreast of current business practices, I can effectively prepare students for the working world, where theory comes alive.

Did you know?
People might be surprised to know that I've had many interesting adventures! I grew up on a farm, hiked the Grand Canyon, and took a round trip to Europe on a freighter. I also love the ocean even though I live in Ohio!

Close up and personal
I believe that students learn writing best by working one-on-one in a give-and-take process. By sitting down with them as they write, I can help students figure out what they want to say and then help them construct the text they envisioned creating when they began. I am fortunate to be able to teach on such a personal level; this approach often leads to long-term relationships with students as I continue to provide professional advice during their college career and beyond.