Daniel Valella

**Daniel Valella** is an Assistant Professor of English Language and Literature and Faculty Associate in Latina/o Studies at the University of Michigan. His research focuses on 20th- and 21st-century U.S. minority literatures, comparative ethnic studies, rhetorical theory, and queer cultures. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley (2019).

His current book project, *American Ethos: Race, Coloniality, and Literary Persuasion*, examines how minority writers use rhetorical ethos to combat social injustices. Valella teaches courses such as *Queer of Color Literature and Culture* and *Latinx Literature of the U.S.*, often cross-listed with Women’s & Gender Studies and American Culture.

Recent publications include analyses of Tomás Rivera’s *y no se lo tragó la tierra* (2023) and Gloria Anzaldúa’s queer rhetorical kinship (2021). His work bridges literary analysis with sociopolitical themes like citizenship and detention.

No scientific awards are listed, but his scholarly contributions highlight interdisciplinary approaches to race, rhetoric, and identity. He is currently on leave for the 2024–25 academic year.