teaches Spanish and Latin American Literature and Culture
research interests cover 19th century Latin American culture
enjoys swimming, reading, movies and opera
Background
"I have a multilingual and diverse cultural background. I was born into a family of Italian immigrants to South America, and Spanish, Italian, Venetian, and Portuguese were spoken at home. Spanish is my first native language, and I am also fluent in Italian and Portuguese. At school I learned English and French, as well as upper classes in Italian history and literature.
"My university studies were done in both Uruguay and Argentina. After I received my five-year degree (Licenciatura en Letras) , I wanted to continue towards a PhD, and I came to study in the United States. I received my MA from the University of Washington and PhD from the University of Pennsylvania. In 1993 I was hired by Miami University."
Teaching
"I teach 300 and 400/500 level classes; this means Spanish grammar, composition, and literature courses. I also teach Latin American culture classes and specific topics courses in literature.
"I love teaching. The idea of sharing the act of reading (literature and cultural history) and inviting and accompanying students to discover new spaces for reflection and critical thinking is extremely rewarding."
Research
"I am interested in 19th century Spanish-American narrative, mainly authors and works that need to be (re)discovered and (re)read. The relationship between Latin American history and literacy is fascinating."
Outside the Classroom
"Among the things I enjoy outside the classroom are swimming, movies, and listening to classical music. And I love reading, of course. Family, friends, colleagues, and intellectual dialogue keep me constantly motivated, and I'm fortunate to have an abundance of that here at Miami!"