Richard McNabb, Professor of English and Writing Programs Administrator
Department of English and Comparative Literature
Where were you before coming to SJSU?
Long Island University in Brookville, NY.
Tell us something about your personal life, such as your family or your interests outside of work.
I am a CrossFit and TRX suspension addict. In addition to taking group classes daily, I am working on becoming a certificated instructor.
Why are you excited to be here?
I am excited to be part of the SJSU university-wide initiative (which includes writing across the curriculum, first-year writing, and Stretch) to improve student writing and the first-year learning experience.
What is your educational background?
I received a BA in Philosophy, an MA in English, and PhD in Rhetoric and Composition from the University of Arizona, Tucson.
What do you enjoy about teaching?
Helping students achieve their academic and professional goals (a cliché, but true).
What do you enjoy about being a specialist in your field?
Dispelling the notion that arguments are just about winning a quarrel or a debate; arguments are more about expressing ideas clearly, logically, ethically, and persuasively.
Please give us a quote that sums up your personal, educational, creative, or scholarly philosophy.
“Don’t raise your voice; improve your argument.” Desmond Tutu, Address at the Nelson Mandela Foundation in Houghton, Johannesburg, South Africa, 23 November 2004
