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School of American and Global Studies

Maria Spitz

Maria Spitz

Title

Associate Professor

Office Building

Lincoln Hall

Office

313

Mailing Address

Lincoln Hall 313
School of American & Global Studies-Box 2212
University Station
Brookings, SD 57007

Biography

I joined SDSU in August 2005 and have taught all levels of Spanish, as well as Introduction to Global Studies. I consider being a student of the world the most fulfilling activity on the planet, aside from walking my dog. I also created the department Capstone class for our majors in languages and global studies, and have enjoyed helping them see the value in their education. My research has been published in well-known peer-reviewed journals, and I have presented papers at regional, national and international conferences. I am especially proud of creating the first-ever study abroad experience at SDSU to combine Service-Learning with language study.

Education

  • Ph.D. in Hispanic languages and literatures | Washington University - St. Louis | 2001
  • M.A. in Hispanic languages and literatures | Washington University - St. Louis | 1992
  • B.A. in Spanish and English | Monmouth College | 1987

Academic Interests

  • Critical theory on cultures and identity
  • Human rights
  • U.S.-Latin American relations

Academic Responsibilities

  • Spanish and global studies major adviser
  • Spanish assessment
  • Curriculum development
  • Adviser, Rho Chi Chapter of Sigma Delta Pi Spanish Honorary Society

Committees and Professional Memberships

  • Faculty Senator for the College of Arts and Sciences
  • COHE Officer
  • Ad Hoc Conference Planning Committee
  • Modern Language Association
  • American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages
  • Society of Latin American Studies

Awards and Honors

  • Study Abroad Leadership Award (2011)
  • TRIO Students' Choice Award (2008)

Work Experience

  • 2010-present: associate professor, SDSU
  • 2005-2010: assistant professor, SDSU
  • 2002-2005: assistant professor and Department Chair, Blackburn College (Illinois) 
  • 1997-2000: visiting instructor, Ohio University

Areas of Research

  • 19th and 20th century Spanish American portraits of the artist
  • Narratives and cultural identity
  • Visions of the U.S. in the Hispanic world
  • Human rights in the Cold War and globalization

Much of identity theory, combined with historical study and analysis, can illuminate and explain political conflict in the world today and throughout history, thus preparing those students who wish to enter the foreign service, non-profit work, international business and any number of other professions that require knowledge of how the world works and how to most effectively communicate in diverse situations.

Department(s)