School of Writing, Literature, and Film*

Message from Anita Helle, Transitional Director

Our proposed name change from English Department to the School of Writing, Literature, and Film highlights the full spectrum of our academic programs and impacts across the university in the fields of creative writing, rhetoric/writing, literary studies, and critical film studies.

When I became Transitional Director in February, 2011, I realized that one of my challenges would lie in explaining how reorganization makes us stronger.  And it does make us stronger. Clear answers to this question have emerged through our conversations about mission and values.

First, in English we have developed sophisticated techniques for analyzing and valuing literary and cultural representations from the past; reorganization compels us also to sharpen our focus on the future of English studies and on our distinctive strengths.

Second, English has long been a catalyst for interdisciplinary connections. Our conversations have helped us carefully consider the expansion of interdisciplinary research, outreach, and collaborative activity, drawing upon OSU’s current and potential strengths as a 21^st century land grant university.   Our first Critical Questions speaker this year (Feb. 2, Dr. Carl Djerassi) on literature and science exemplifies this potential.

Third, in the age of the internet, we have all become part of a “society of writers”—whether creative or applied, on the printed page or screen.  Our proposed name change has helped us focus on the high stakes of multiple literacies and inter-cultural awareness to the future of our disciplines.

Fourth, our experience and emphasis on training teachers (for secondary, two-year and four-year institutions) reminds us that traditions of scholarly-teaching, dedication to learning, and student success lie at the heart of our commitments.

--Anita Helle