Christopher Burnham

Christopher Burnham is a Professor in the Department of English at New Mexico State University (NMSU), where he has served since 1981. He has held leadership roles including Writing Program Director, Department Head, and Associate Department Head. His career spans teaching writing and literature, developing writing programs, and leading Writing Across the Curriculum initiatives.

• Education:
  • Ph.D. in English Literature and Language from University of Rhode Island (1980)
  • M.A. in English from University of Rhode Island (1974)
  • B.A. in English with Honors in American Studies from Rutgers College (1972)

Dr. Burnham specializes in rhetoric, argument theory, inquiry-based pedagogy, and assessment. His work emphasizes reflective practice, Teacher Inquiry, and the ethical development of students. He also founded the Borderlands Writing Project, focusing on K-16 teacher professional development.

Recent publications highlight interdisciplinary collaboration, assessment strategies, and reflective pedagogy. He has co-authored works on engineering communication, writing program administration, and narrative-based learning.

As a Regents Professor, Dr. Burnham has led university-wide writing initiatives and contributed to national conversations on composition pedagogy. His teaching includes courses on argument history, grammar practicum, and rhetorical theory.