A new name for ELS

The department recently voted to change its name from English, LInguistics, and Speech to English, LInguistics, and Communication. We are currently in the process of migrating the web addresses to our new url. The new name gives us an opportunity to better represent the rhetorical and communication studies opportunities that the department offers. Several exciting new courses are being added to the catalog in Communication.

New Hires

We are very excited to be able to share with you that we have completed hiring two new faculty for the 2008-2009 academic year, and are in the process of completing an additional search for a new faculty member in creative writing. I know that you will be glad to learn that we have hired Assistant Professor Gary Richards, currently an associate professor of American Literature and Southern Studies at the University of New Orleans, and Assistant Professor Zach Whalen, who just earned his Ph.D. in New Media Studies at the University of Florida. We have also hired Assistant Professor Colin Rafferty, who earned his M.F.A. from the University of Alabama, and will be teaching creative non fiction, fiction, and other creative writing courses.

Concentration in Creative Writing

I am also glad to be able to tell you about our exciting new concentration in Creative Writing. Students will be able to pursue extra coursework in creative writing beginning with the 2008-2009 academic year. See the link on the home page to explore the new program. As part of our development of Communication studies and Creative Writing, I am also happy to announce that the Communication and Creative Writing Faculty will move to the new mansion at College Avenue and William Street. Poetry readings, informal gatherings, and other events will be planned in our beautiful new space.

Honors

The deadlines and forms for applying for honors this year have been updated. Please work closely with your faculty advisors to ensure that you meet all deadlines.

Scholarships

The department offers several scholarships. If you are interested in applying, please follow the instructions provided on the home page for the department.