The Writing Center is staffed by professional instructors and peer tutors who work with individual students to help them understand and apply the principles of effective writing. Within the guidelines of writing lab pedagogy, each person brings a unique style to assisting our students. In addition, we are continually upgrading our skills, whether in computer technology, composition theory, or writing center ethics.

Director

Jay Todd received his BA in Literature and Language from Webster University in St. Louis and his MA and PhD in Creative Writing from the University of Southern Mississippi. After completing his graduate studies, he taught at Southeastern Louisiana University during the 2006/2007 school year before accepting his current position at Xavier, where he is also an Assistant Professor of English.

Staff Instructors

Charlotte Banks acquired her BA in Secondary Education (English) and MA in Education Administration, plus 30 hours in Supervisory and Gifted Education from Xavier University. Ms. Banks also holds an MA in African-American Literature from Vermont College of Norwich University. As a graduate of Xavier, she considers her position as a member of the Writing Center staff one of her most rewarding endeavors.

Jean Skinner came to Xavier in 1989, but working with students interests her as much now as then. Ms. Jean did undergraduate work at LSU, graduating with an honors BA in literature, but no grammar instruction. She went back later for her MA, and, while a graduate student, received her first teaching assignment: ninety freshmen—and none spoke fluent English. She feverishly studied a grammar handbook and anxiously tried to explain English to students she barely understood. After seven years, she still wanted to teach, but came to Xavier’s Writing Center to work with students individually. Here, she has found that ever-changing students and learning situations make every semester an educational adventure.

An honor graduate of Loyola University, Pepper Sessum Caruso was busy acquiring a Master’s in Secondary Education (English) at the University of New Orleans when she joined the Writing Center staff in the fall of 2006. Although she originally intended to teach high school, she quickly appreciated the university atmosphere and, more importantly, was inspired by the motivation of Xavier’s students. Ms. Caruso continues to freelance as a writer and editor and was a finalist in the 2005 Faulkner-Wisdom international essay competition.

Peer Tutors

Malika Adams

Jillana Cavalier

Shanhai Heywood

Courtney Jackson

Rachel Kay

Jonathan Metoyer

Nzia Pratt

Brittany Williams