English, Languages, and Cultures

At Savannah State, the Department of English, Languages, and Cultures provides engaging courses in literature, world languages, and first-year writing that prepare students for success across all disciplines.

The Department of English, Languages, and Cultures offers exciting and versatile courses in English Language and Literature, World Languages and Cultures, and Writing and First-year Composition. Recent graduates with English backgrounds have used it to pursue professional studies in law and education, graduate study in literature, and careers in fields ranging from public service to commissioned military officer to non-profits.

The department also offers a variety of courses in Spanish language, literature, and culture.

The department’s largest program, First-Year Writing, serves all Savannah State University students by offering the courses Composition I (ENGL 1101) and Composition II (ENGL 1102).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Department of English, Languages, and Cultures (FAQs)

1. Does Savannah State University offer an English major?
At this time, SSU does not offer an English major. However, the Department of English, Languages, and Cultures provides essential courses in composition, literature, and world languages that are part of the university’s core curriculum requirements.

2. What courses can I take in the ELC Department?
We offer first-year composition (ENGL 1101 & 1102), support courses (ENGL 0999), literature courses, creative writing, linguistics, and introductory courses in world languages and cultural studies. These courses help students strengthen their writing, communication, and critical thinking skills.

3. Are these courses only for English students?
No—all SSU students take ELC courses as part of the general education curriculum. Our classes prepare students from every major with the skills they need for success in academic, professional, and personal communication.

4. What resources are available to help me with writing?
The Writing Center, located in Morgan Hall, provides free tutoring for all SSU students in any discipline. Students can get help with brainstorming, drafting, revising, grammar, and citation styles.

5. What makes the ELC Department important to my education?
Strong writing, reading, and communication skills are essential for every career path. The ELC Department ensures that all SSU students graduate with the ability to think critically, write effectively, and engage with diverse cultural perspectives.

6. Who teaches in the ELC Department?
Our faculty include experts in composition, linguistics, creative writing, world languages, and literature. They bring diverse cultural and academic backgrounds and are committed to student success inside and outside the classroom.

Writing Center (FAQs)

1. Who can use the Writing Center?
All Savannah State University students are welcome—no matter your major or year. We help with assignments in any discipline, not just English courses.

2. How much does it cost?
Nothing! The Writing Center is a free service for all SSU students.

3. Do I need an appointment?
Walk-ins are welcome during open hours, but appointments are encouraged to guarantee a time with a mentor.

4. What should I bring to my session?
Bring your assignment instructions, your draft (if you have one), and any notes or sources you’re using. You can also come with just an idea—we’ll help you get started.

5. Will the Writing Center fix my paper for me?
No—we don’t “edit” or “correct” papers for students. Instead, our mentors work with you to build skills and improve your own writing.

6. What kinds of writing can I get help with?
We support academic essays, research papers, lab reports, resumes, cover letters, personal statements, creative writing, and more.

7. How long are sessions?
Sessions typically last 15–20 minutes, depending on your needs. Longer sessions may be scheduled for larger or more complex projects

8. Who are the mentors?
Our team includes both faculty mentors and trained student peer tutors. Together, they create a supportive and collaborative environment for writers at all levels.

9. Can I get help with citations and formatting?
Yes! We assist with MLA, APA, and other major citation styles.

The Savannah State University Writing Center

Mission

The Writing Center is here to support all SSU students—not only those enrolled in English classes. Whether you’re writing a lab report for Biology, a case study for Business, a research paper for History, or a scholarship essay, our team is ready to help you at every stage of the writing process.

What makes the Writing Center distinctive is that students work with both faculty mentors and trained peer tutors. Faculty mentors bring professional expertise and guidance, while student mentors provide peer-to-peer support that is approachable and relatable. Together, they create a collaborative and encouraging environment for growth.

We provide individualized feedback on brainstorming, organization, clarity, grammar, and citation styles (MLA, APA, and more). Our goal is to help every student become a more confident and effective communicator, no matter the subject.

Services include:

  • One-on-one tutoring for assignments in any discipline
  • Guidance on brainstorming, drafting, and revising
  • Feedback on structure, clarity, and style
  • Support with MLA, APA, and other citation systems
  • Workshops on academic and professional writing

📍 Location: Morgan Hall
Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Mon.–Thurs.) | 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Fri.)
📞 Appointments: Walk-ins welcome or schedule through EAB

Contact the Writing Center
Email: [email protected]
We reply during Writing Center hours. Include your name, 915 student ID number, course, instructor, and a brief note about what you need.

Strong writing is essential in every field. Visit the Writing Center and let our faculty and student mentors help you succeed.

Academic Programs

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Professional Writing

Writing is one of the most important and valued skills graduating students must have to be successful in seeking employment post-graduation. This certificate program in professional writing provides a certification in this employer-valued skill and can serve students across the university.

Organizations

Estuary Student Literary Magazine
Dr. Chad Faries, Advisor
Mrs. Kelly Downs, Advisor

Faculty

Meet the faculty and staff from the Department of English, Languages, and Cultures at Savannah State University.
Part of what makes our department so distinctive is the breadth of expertise and perspectives our faculty bring to the classroom. Our professors represent a diverse range of academic specialties and cultural backgrounds, including composition, linguistics, creative writing, and world languages. In addition to their individually tailored research, publications, creative projects, and professional accomplishments, our faculty collaborate to provide students with a rich, engaging, and student-centered learning experience. Together, we are committed to fostering critical thinking, communication, and cultural awareness at the highest standards here at SSU. We invite you to learn more about our faculty and to reach out with questions or comments.

English Faculty

Tieniu Cheng
Associate Professor
Howard Jordan
Phone: 912.358.3340
[email protected]

D’Yanna Coffey
Instructor
Herty Hall Room
Phone: 912.358.3211
[email protected]

Kelly Downs
Instructor
Coordinator of COSH ELC Department
Coordinator of the Writing Center
Social Science Building Room
Phone: 912.358.3344
[email protected]

Chad Faries
Full Professor
Social Science Building
Phone: 912.358.3329
[email protected]

Jenni Halpin
Full Professor
Social Science Building
Phone: 912.358.3349
[email protected]

Michael Maloney
Instructor
Social Sciences Building
[email protected]

Brandon McCoy
Instructor
Herty Hall
Phone: 912.358.3221
[email protected]

Taqwaa Saleem
Instructor
Herty Hall
[email protected]

Patricia West
Instructor
Social Sciences Building
[email protected]

Languages Faculty 

Encarnacion Cruz-Jimenez
Instructor
[email protected]

Kevin O’Brien
Instructor
Social Science Building
[email protected]

 

 

Virtual Advisor