I am a lifelong teacher, writer, and researcher with more than a decade of experience teaching and mentoring learners in K–12 and professional learning settings. My background is in English and education, and I specialize in helping writers move from lived experience to clear, intentional narrative.

I hold a PhD in Educational Leadership, a Master of Arts in Teaching, and a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature. My academic training shapes how I teach memoir as a craft that can be learned through structure, practice, and thoughtful revision. I approach personal writing with the same care and clarity emphasized in formal writing instruction, with a focus on purpose, reflection, and precise language choices.

In my current role, I work as a researcher with a focus on project management, coordinating complex initiatives that require organization, clarity, and follow-through. This work informs a teaching approach that is structured, methodical, and supportive, helping writers move steadily from idea to completed manuscript.

I believe memoir writing is both reflective and rigorous. In my courses, you will find clear instruction, guided writing activities, and a skills-based approach to revision designed to build confidence and independence as a writer. Whether you are new to memoir or returning to a manuscript you want to refine, my goal is to help you develop writing practices you can carry into future projects.

Joy Rushing, PhD