In Lieu of an Introduction…
My work experience ranges from the wheat fields of The Palouse in Washington State (not included below, but I’ll be happy to take questions) to the halls of academia at Rice University in Houston, with forays into fields adjacent and less so, and professional sojourns in both Europe and Asia. I’ve delved and I’ve dabbled, I’ve published and I’ve performed. I prefer independence but welcome collaboration. Like most, I’m not without contradiction or paradox, and I usually balk at the prospect of having to flatten these out. Nevertheless…
In the summer of 2013 — after more than 20 years on the faculty and 12 years living on campus as a Resident Associate — I retired from Rice University so that I might move to China. Well, I did that. And now I’m back. I no longer teach at Rice, but I’m honored to be counted among its emeritus faculty.
Now I divide my time between (1) subbing on occasion at nearby St. John’s High School (in subjects related to the humanities), (2) teaching German at the (also nearby) German Institute for the Southwest and English as a Second Language at the (similarly nearby) LCI — Learning Consultants International, (3) holding tutorials in composition at my home (what could be more nearby than home?), and (4) continuing my on-site and long-distance work with students in China (via Skype and email), as they prepare for admission to blue-chip universities here in the U.S.
And that about sums it up.
This cover page affords a bird’s eye view. For details, click on each heading link. For questions, email me here.
Teaching Skills
I have more than 40 years experience teaching languages, literature, and culture. I’ve taught all levels (from beginning to graduate seminars), all ages (from young to old), all formats (from one-on-one to large groups), and in diverse contexts (from academic to business). Part of this experience includes training and supervising other teachers, developing language testing, and designing curricula.
Writing Skills
I’ve written and edited two books, published several articles (mostly academic), and penned three novels, a slew of poems, plays, and short stories.
Speaking & Performance Skills
Successful teaching requires good skills in communication (not to mention performance!), but beyond the teaching I’ve also delivered more than 50 lectures and presentations in both academic and public formats. I’ve played major roles in more than two dozen performances, ranging from operas to musicals to dramas, and I’ve provided voice-over narration (in English and German) for various clients at several local recording studios.
Administrative Skills
Over the last four decades, I’ve held a number of administrative and supervisory positions. I’ve directed and coordinated workshops, academic conferences, and public cultural events.
Awards & Distinctions
Who doesn’t like receiving these? I’m proud of the acknowledgments for my efforts in teaching, service, and performing.
Education
PhD, The Ohio State University (1980)
MA, Washington State University (1976)
BA, Washington State University (1975)
Last updated: February 17, 2020
