I teach all levels of French language and literature.  My teaching reflects my interdisciplinary interests.  I have participated in both the Foreign Languages Across the Curriculum (FLAC) program (since its inception) and the Great Conversation program (two cycles).  I have also  supervised many independent studies and student teachers in French over the years.

What I enjoy most about teaching is getting to know the students well. I love speaking French, and I am most happy when interacting with students, both in and out of the classroom setting.

I received my Ph.D. in French from the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana, in 1984 with a specialization in 19th century literature. My dissertation, "Aspects of the Double in the Works of Gerard de Nerval," explores  autobiographical elements in Nerval's novels, short stories, poetry and articles for the press.  My current research focuses on autobiographical writing, especially the journal of Eugénie de Guérin and  the work of contemporary award-winning author, Delphine de Vigan. My other interests include the works of 20th century writers Marcel Proust and Julien Green. More recently I have presented research on "le roman policier" (detective novels), especially those of Fred Vargas.  My long-term research project is centered on French narratives of illness and suffering and the literature of anorexia.  

Away from the hill, I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling to Paris, and singing in choirs.