Missy Nieveen-Phegley, Ph.D.

Teaching

• EN100: English Composition
• EN376: Advanced Composition
• EN600: Orientation Seminar for Teaching Assistants
• EN651: Seminar in Teaching Freshman English I

Publications in:

• Across the Disciplines
• Lore: An E-Journal for Teachers of Writing
• ReadWriteThink
• Kairos: A Journal of Rhetoric, Technology, and Pedagogy

BIO

I am a Professor of English and the University Assessment Coordinator at SEMO, where I have taught since 2008. I began my career as a high school English teacher before earning my Ph.D. in Rhetoric and Composition from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. At SEMO, I have taught a wide range of writing courses, from first-year composition to composition theory to creative nonfiction. I have also mentored graduate teaching assistants and served as Director of Composition and Assessment. What I enjoy most about teaching is helping students become more confident writers, as they find their own voices and understand writing as an avenue for exploring ideas and making connections.

My work at SEMO has also given me the opportunity to collaborate with faculty across the university on assessment, accreditation, faculty development, and student success. My scholarship focuses on mindful approaches to teaching writing and building a culture of assessment, with more recent work exploring AI literacy and the thoughtful use of artificial intelligence in higher education.

When I'm not working, I'm usually looking for any excuse to be outside. I am a longtime yoga and mindfulness teacher and an outdoor enthusiast who loves mountain biking, gravel riding, paddleboarding, and hiking. I also love traveling and spending time with my kids and my friends, especially when we are exploring new places and creating adventures. I'm a frequent contributor to an outdoor recreation magazine, and I write creative nonfiction about my outdoor adventures as well as growing up in a motel.

Related Articles

I've published in English Journal, Kairos, Across the Disciplines, Lore, as well as chapters in edited collections. My creative nonfiction has been published in Boudin, Flourish, and Cave Region Review. I also write for regional magazines such as Terrain Magazine, Mind + Body, and Human.

Quote

"It's all about balance--work hard, stay curious, and make space for the things that bring you joy."

Awards and Honors

• Provost Award for Teaching Excellence: Excellence in Assessment of Student Learning, 2019, 2024
• HSS Outstanding Service Award, 2026
• Faculty Merit Award, 2026

Professional Organizations

• Council of Writing Program Administrators
• Generative AI Community of Practice
• CCCC
• NCTE
• TYCA

Best Advice for Students

Block off time during the week for studying--take advantage of the gaps between classes and no-class days to get your homework done--and stick to it. This will free up evenings and weekends for time with friends and family.