Andrew Cowell

Andrew Cowell is a Professor of Linguistics at the University of Colorado Boulder and Faculty Director of the Center for Native American and Indigenous Studies (CNAIS). He holds a PhD in French from UC Berkeley (1993) and an AB from Harvard University (1986). His work bridges linguistic anthropology, language documentation, and revitalization efforts for Indigenous languages. Specializing in Algonquian languages (Arapaho, Gros Ventre) and Polynesian languages (Hawaiian, Tahitian), he focuses on structural analysis, community-based documentation, and technological innovations like VR for language preservation. Cowell has authored foundational grammars, dictionaries, and pedagogical resources while advocating for Indigenous language rights through projects funded by NSF/NEH.

• Education: PhD (UC Berkeley), AB (Harvard)

Research interests include polysynthetic grammar, semantic annotation frameworks (UMR/AMR), and cross-linguistic collaboration methodologies. His current NSF-funded project develops a lexical database for Arapaho. Earlier work explored medieval French literature and performance studies, reflecting his interdisciplinary approach to language and culture.

Publications span theoretical linguistics, computational tools for endangered languages, and policy analysis for Indigenous language revitalization. He collaborates with Indigenous communities to create actionable resources for language maintenance and cultural continuity.

Grants include major NSF/NEH support for lexical databases and cross-lingual semantic projects. His lab develops VR tools and digital archives for immersive language learning. Cowell also contributes to international initiatives like the UN’s International Decade of Indigenous Languages (IDIL) through policy evaluations and advocacy.