- PhD, University of Oregon
- MA, University of Oregon
- BA, McGill University
Ross Odell brings a passion for literature and writing to College of the Redwoods, where he values teaching as a central part of academic life. He joined CR after working at a public research university, seeking an environment where faculty prioritize student learning. Raised in Vermont and a longtime resident of the Pacific Northwest, Ross finds Humboldt to be a natural fit for his outdoorsy lifestyle.
Ross’s academic background is in medieval British literature, with a special focus on chivalric romance. As a medievalist, he explores the history of emotions, folklore, and dream visions. The texts that first drew him to the field were Sir Gawain and the Green Knight and Chaucer’s Book of the Duchess. His lifelong fascination with Arthurian romance even shaped his childhood: he named his pet lizards “Lance” and “Gwen,” owned a replica of Excalibur from the 1981 John Boorman film, and once wrote a fan letter to Lloyd Alexander, author of The Chronicles of Prydain series.
In addition to literature, Ross has extensive experience teaching writing at both the high school and college levels. Previously, he served as an Assistant Director of Composition and Writing Lab Director, where he worked to make writing courses more inclusive of diverse rhetorical traditions. He believes that teaching writing fosters growth for both students and faculty, considering it foundational to his work as an educator.
Ross’s teaching style emphasizes careful reading and critical thinking. In literature courses, students can expect a mix of lecture and seminar, with historical and cultural context paired with rich discussion. He encourages students to take interpretive risks and connect classical texts to contemporary culture. In writing courses, Ross prioritizes process over product, guiding students through drafting, revision, and reflective practice to craft thoughtful and persuasive work.
He believes curiosity, interpretive courage, and a willingness to engage deeply with texts are key to success. Studying English at CR builds skills in critical analysis, media literacy, and communication, preparing students for careers in teaching, editing, publishing, communications, law, medical humanities, marketing, and the creative arts. Ross also emphasizes that critical reading is essential to being an informed and engaged member of society.
What Ross enjoys most about teaching at CR is the collaborative, supportive community of learners and teachers, and the opportunity to learn from students from all backgrounds.
Courses Taught:
- College Writing (ENGL C1000 & C1001)
- British Literature Surveys (ENGL 60 & 61)
- American Literature Surveys (ENGL 17 & 18)
- World Literature Surveys (ENGL 9 & 10)