Michelle Petty

Dr. Michelle Petty is an Assistant Teaching Professor at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), affiliated with the College of Creative Studies and the Writing Program. She specializes in interdisciplinary research at the intersection of Black feminism, educational equity, and digital writing practices. Her work critiques systemic barriers in academia while advocating for linguistically just pedagogies.

Michelle teaches in the Writing Program and the Writing and Literature Major within the College of Creative Studies. Her research explores Black students' linguistic agency, decolonial education frameworks, and Afrofuturism as a tool for literacy innovation. She actively contributes to conversations about diversifying academic curricula through evidence-based strategies.

Her recent publications address topics such as linguistic justice, anti-racist pedagogical practices, and preparing graduate students for intersectional research in writing studies. Though currently no grants or awards are listed, her work emphasizes actionable solutions for educational equity.

Michelle’s advising and mentorship focus on fostering critical thinking in writing instruction. She is involved in campus initiatives promoting inclusive academic environments, leveraging her dual role in creative studies and traditional university programs.