MaryAnn Christison

MaryAnn Christison is a Distinguished Professor of Linguistics at the University of Utah, holding concurrent appointments as Professor and Adjunct Professor in Teacher Education programs. She serves as Director of Graduate Studies and Co-chair of The International Research Foundation's Research Advisory Committee.

• PhD in Linguistics (University of Utah, 1987)
• MA in Theatre Arts (Utah State, 1977) and multiple English-related advanced degrees

Her research focuses on multilingual education frameworks, language teacher training, and neurolinguistic approaches. She has developed models like MADE (Multilingual Approach to Diversity in Education) and Dominant Language Constellation, with extensive fieldwork across 35+ countries.

Recent publications emphasize:

• Multilingual identity formation in educators
• Integrating content and language instruction
• Emotional intelligence in language leadership
• Strategic planning for language programs
• Technology-enhanced teacher education
• Policy implementation in linguistically diverse contexts

Scientific recognitions include:

• TESOL International Association Alatis Award (2012)
• TESOL 50@50 Service Recognition (2016)
• Distinguished Graduate Student Mentoring Award (2024)

As a global teacher trainer, she has impacted over 6,000 English educators through U.S. State Department programs, combining classroom research with policy advocacy.