About

I’m Sara Webb-Sunderhaus, an assistant professor of English at Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW), where I coordinate the basic writing program and teach courses in writing, theories of writing, and folklore. My research broadly focuses on issues surrounding literacy, identity, and access. More specifically, I’ve done ethnographic work on the literacy practices and beliefs of Appalachian college students enrolled in first-year composition courses.  I’m currently investigating the retention of basic writers at my institution and learning more about how these students conceptualize their literacies and their education.

I earned a Ph.D. in Rhetoric, Composition, and Literacy from Theeeee Ohio State University (can’t forget that “the”); my students enjoy teasing me about my fervent love of my alma mater.  While I do enjoy Ohio State football (Go Bucks!), my love for OSU grows out of my Ph.D. program, which gave me wonderful opportunities, extraordinary mentors, and dear friends.  For more about my professional life, see my cv.

Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, I reside in Fort Wayne with my husband (G), two children (M and P), a messed-up dog, and a psychologically disturbed cat. My daughter M is in third grade, and my son P is four.

I blog about my research, my teaching, my kids, my never-ending quest for an uninterrupted night of sleep, and whatever else strikes my fancy.  I have blogged across various platforms since 2005, though Facebook has taken over much of the time I used to devote to blogging.

You may email me at webbsusa AT gmail DOT com.  Comment policy:  I reserve the right to edit comments.  Rude or obnoxious comments will be deleted, and repeat offenders will be banned.  Deal.