Dr. Priscilla Riggle
Department Chair - English & Linguistics
BA, MA, Northeast Missouri State University; PhD, Bowling Green State University.
Since arriving at Truman in 1995, I've developed and taught a broad range of courses from the areas of literature, writing, and film. In addition to my teaching role, I am the supervisor of English Graduate Teaching and Research Assistants (GTRAs) and the Interim Director of the English MA program.
Over the years, my research has investigated the relationship between cognition, emotion, and creative production, whether that be in the realm of writing, film, or television. Working with blocked/anxious writers to identify and work from strengths is my primary area of expertise.
Although I am now happily immersed in teaching and research, I'm also proud to have been the first chair of the Department of English and Linguistics (2007-09) and the founding dean of the School of Arts and Letters (2009-12). I'm also honored to have been the first Faculty Mental Health Honoree (2018-19) and a recipient of the Walker and Doris Allen Fellowship (2005).
Two quotations are posted in my office where I see them every day: "Work is love made visible" (Khahil Gibran) and "A day without laughter is a day wasted" (Charlie Chaplin). I try to remember to live out the wisdom contained in these words whenever possible!