TROY names Suero as Chair of World Languages and Cultures Department – Troy Today

Troy University named Dr. Kelly Suero as the Chair for the World Languages and Cultures Department in August 2024.

Suero joined the department in August 2014 and moved into the role that was previously held by Dr. Peter Howard, who retired after teaching at TROY for 50 years.

Dr. Michael Thrasher, Dean of the College of Communication and Fine Arts, said that Suero is a highly accomplished scholar and teacher who has established herself as a rising leader on campus.

“She has exciting ideas for advancing the study of world languages on campus, which is vitally important for our university,” he said. “I am thrilled to welcome her to the leadership team of CCFA.”

Suero said taking on this role is both an honor and a responsibility that she is excited to embrace.

“I believe that language learning opens doors to new perspectives, cultural awareness, and professional opportunities for students,” Suero said. “As Chair, I want to expand our program offerings to include new and dynamic language courses that reflect our global community, such as indigenous languages.”

Additionally, Suero is passionate about promoting the value of language learning and making it more accessible and relevant to students across disciplines.

 “This role allows me to advocate for a curriculum that equips students with the linguistic and cultural skills needed to thrive in a diverse, interconnected world,” she said.

Suero said her primary goal will be to enhance the program by adding new languages and revitalizing the Spanish major.

“Bringing back the Spanish major will provide our students with a significant advantage in the job market,” Suero said. “Furthermore, I hope to introduce courses in indigenous languages and other less commonly taught languages to create a more inclusive and innovative curriculum. The ultimate objective is to foster a learning environment that not only prepares students for professional success but also encourages them to become global citizens.”

Dr. Suero emphasized that students who choose to study in the World Languages and Cultures Department can expect an immersive and dynamic learning experience.

“Our programs go beyond traditional language instruction; we emphasize real-world application, intercultural competence, and critical thinking skills,” she said.

An avid supporter and leader of study abroad programs, Dr. Suero has led programs to Argentina, Uruguay and Peru. This allows students to apply what they learn in the classroom to real-world settings.

“These experiences not only enhance language proficiency but also foster adaptability, cultural awareness, and professional growth,” she said. “Whether they pursue careers in business, healthcare, government, or education, our graduates are well-equipped to navigate and succeed in an increasingly multilingual and multicultural world.”

In 2020, Suero published her book, “Technology and Gendered Genre Evolution in Latin America: Writers, Bloggers, Activists, and Floggers.” Suero is also the author of two Spanish-language textbooks. She received Troy University’s 2019 Ingalls Award for Excellence in Classroom Teaching. 

Suero received her bachelor’s degree, majoring in both English and Spanish, from Oklahoma State University. She then attended Purdue University, where she earned her master’s degree in Spanish Language and Literature and her Ph.D. in Spanish American Literature.