Bethany Lee

Bethany Lee serves as Assistant Professor of English and Director of the PNW Writing Center at Purdue University Northwest. Her dual roles position her at the intersection of creative writing instruction and writing support services for the university community.

Lee's research and teaching focus on creative writing as a vehicle for self-expression, particularly in navigating complex emotional landscapes such as those created by the COVID-19 pandemic. She explores how 'feelings are associated with language' and how trauma can affect the writing process. Her work emphasizes creating non-judgmental spaces where students can explore vulnerability through writing to 'reduce stigmas' and contribute to 'positive conversation.'

Through the Furnace student literary journal, Lee provides significant publication opportunities for undergraduate students. This annual publication offers the rare experience of both submitting work and participating in the full production process, including anonymous reviewing, editorial decisions, design, and publishing in multiple formats—a professional experience typically reserved for graduate students at other institutions.

Lee's teaching philosophy centers on maximizing student expression without judgment. She believes writing instruction should help students determine 'what's working best and how to share their ideas most uniquely.' Her approach has earned appreciation from students who value 'the lack of judgment' that allowed them 'to find their interest and find a way to express themselves.'

As Director of the PNW Writing Center, Lee extends her impact beyond the creative writing classroom to support writers across disciplines. This administrative role complements her teaching by providing institutional resources for student writing development throughout their academic careers at Purdue University Northwest.