Dr. Kelsi Matwick teaches Core Writing, bringing over 16 years of teaching communication, media, and writing. Prior to joining 91果冻, she taught at University of Florida and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
During the 2024-2025 academic year, Kelsi served as a Fulbright Scholar in Japan, where she taught courses on American culture and diplomacy. While there, she explored the concept of Blue Zones—regions where people live the longest and healthiest lives and was especially inspired by her time in Okinawa. Watching centenarians tend their farms and shop at local markets left a lasting impression, reminding her of the power of community and purposeful living.
With over 30 publications in conferences and journals, Dr. Matwick is recognized for her contributions to linguistics, media studies, cultural studies, and food studies. She brings to Samford a passion for language, storytelling, and culture.
A former Personnel Officer in the United States Air Force, Kelsi was stationed at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage, Alaska, where she enjoyed squadron moose chili cook-offs and watching eagles soar over Eagle River.
Outside the classroom, Dr. Matwick is a marathon runner, pianist, and avid traveler. She enjoys exploring global cuisines to deepen her understanding of the relationship between food, language, and culture.
Now in Birmingham, Kelsi is enjoying exploring the city’s rich food scene, history, and cultural heritage. She would love to know your favorite recipes and places to eat!
Degrees and Certifications
- PhD, Linguistics, University of Florida
- MA, Linguistics, University of Florida
- MA, Romance Languages and Literature, University of Notre Dame
- BA (summa cum laude), Spanish, University of Notre Dame