Dana Ferris

Dr. Dana Ferris is a Professor in the University Writing Program at the University of California, Davis (UC Davis). She previously held leadership roles including Director of the UWP, Associate Director of English for Multilingual Students, and Associate Director of UWP 1. Her academic career spans over three decades, including 18 years at California State University, Sacramento, where she directed the TESOL MA program and ESL writing programs. She earned her B.A. from UC Davis, M.A. degrees from California State University, Sacramento and the University of Southern California (Linguistics), and a Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics from USC.

Her research focuses on second language literacy, teacher preparation, and response strategies for student writing. She has authored nine books and over 60 scholarly works, including Teaching L2 Composition and Written Corrective Feedback in Second Language Acquisition and Writing. Ferris has served as co-editor of the Journal of Second Language Writing and founding editor of the Journal of Response to Writing, contributing significantly to academic discourse in her field.

Ferris has received numerous awards, including the Best Article Award from the Journal of Second Language Writing and three-time finalist for the President's Award for Scholarly Achievement. She actively contributes to academic governance, serving on boards for CATESOL and TESOL. Beyond academia, she is an avid San Francisco Giants fan and writer for their fan blog under the pseudonym DrLefty.

• Key Roles: Professor, UWP Leadership, Journal Editorships
• Education: B.A. UC Davis (English/Creative Writing), M.A. Sacramento State (TESOL), M.A./Ph.D. USC (Linguistics/Applied Linguistics)
• Research Themes: Second Language Writing, Corrective Feedback, Multilingual Education
• Professional Activities: Board Member of CATESOL, TESOL Committees, and CCCC Standing Committee on Second Language Writing

Her work bridges theory and practice, emphasizing evidence-based approaches to writing pedagogy while advocating for inclusive practices in multilingual education. Ferris's publications and editorial contributions have shaped curricula and teaching methodologies globally.