Faculty & Staff

Duquesne University

Ph.D. in Rhetoric

Dissertation: “The Rhetoric and Philosophy of Early American Discourse 1767-1801: Toward a Theory of Common Sense”

State University of New York at Brockport

M.A. in Speech Communication (Rhetoric)

St. John Fisher University

B.A. in Communication (Journalism)

After earning my Ph.D. in Rhetoric from Duquesne University, I proudly joined the Truman State University faculty in 2005, where I have since earned the rank of full professor. As a first-generation high school graduate who worked my way through college, I carry deep appreciation for the opportunities education has provided me. I was born and raised in beautiful western New York—a region rich with abolitionist history and women’s suffrage activism—which profoundly shaped my decision to pursue rhetoric as my life’s work.

My teaching and research focus on the history, theory, and practice of rhetoric, including public address, campaigns, and social movements. I also work in Italian studies, film studies, and foodways. Though I am still learning to feel worthy of the honor, I was named Truman State University’s Educator of the Year in 2010 and received the Missouri Governor’s Award for Excellence in Education in 2011. I also make a marinara sauce that has earned my mother’s approval—no small achievement.

My wife, Heather Cianciola, Ph.D., and I are the proud parents of two wonderful boys, Evan and Ian.

I come from a working-class, blue-collar household. My mother was a career waitress who, when she could afford it, helped me buy books for my college courses. While I did not grow up in abject poverty, my childhood was shaped by financial hardship, including periods when my mother relied on food stamps. Because of this background, when I feel anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed, I remind myself how fortunate I am to spend my days reading, thinking, writing, connecting with students, and teaching. In the classroom, I hope to share not only my passion for rhetoric but also the gratitude and inspiration that come from being able to pursue an education.