Cedric Joseph Oliva

Dr. Cedric Joseph Oliva is an Associate Professor of Communication and Language Studies at Bryant University, affiliated with the College of Arts and Sciences. He previously held roles as Visiting Assistant Professor at St. Lawrence University and Director of the Less Commonly Taught Languages Program. At California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), he served as Language Program and Teaching Associate Program Coordinator, overseeing six languages and training over 120 teaching associates.

Dr. Oliva holds a Ph.D. from the University of Corsica (co-directed at CSULB), alongside multiple MA and BA degrees from institutions including the University of Corsica and Stendhal University. His research focuses on multilingual pedagogy, intercomprehension strategies for Romance languages, and leveraging bilingualism (Spanish/English) to enhance L3 learning. He has authored/co-authored textbooks such as Juntos: Italian/French for Speakers of English and Spanish and presented widely at conferences like ACTFL and the University of Puerto Rico.

His teaching spans French, Italian, and linguistics, with expertise in advanced topics like Francophone studies and language for professionals. He emphasizes culturally responsive pedagogy and has developed curricula for diverse student populations, particularly Hispanic-serving institutions.

Professional affiliations include the American Council for Teachers of Foreign Languages and the Modern Language Association.