Assistant Professor, Spanish and Portuguese
Research
I specialize in Sociolinguistics, with my primary research focus encompassing Heritage Language Studies and Pedagogy, as well as Language Variation. Within the realm of Heritage Language Studies, I investigate the efficacy of Critical Language Awareness in enhancing the educational experiences of Spanish Heritage Language Learners, particularly examining their community-building dynamics within the state of Indiana. Additionally, my research delves into the morphosyntactic characteristics of Spanish varieties in the United States, aiming to contribute to studies that establish their linguistic legitimacy. This investigation extends to the analysis of prevailing linguistic attitudes and ideologies surrounding these varieties and their speakers.
On the language variation front, my work explores diverse morphosyntactic features of Spanish in contact with Quechua and Kichwa in varieties of contact and migratory regions in Peru and Ecuador. Furthermore, I hold a role as co-principal investigator in the Peruzonians project, an initiative dedicated to creating a Living Archive of the Peruvian Migrant Experience in Arizona. The project's core mission centers on promoting interculturality and nurturing a strengthened sense of identity among Peruvian migrants in Arizona.
The College of Arts