Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) is pleased to announce that Assistant Professor of Rhetoric and Composition Dr. Heather Hartness is the recipient of the 2023 Victor J. Vitanza Dissertation Award by the Rhetorics, Communication, and Information Design (RCID) Department at Clemson University. Dr. Hartness’ dissertation, “A Burkean Herstory: Liminal Narratives in the Life and Work of Kenneth Burke," was directed by Dr. David Blakesley, Professor of Rhetorics, Communication, and Information Design at Clemson.
In recognizing Dr. Hartness’ work a member of the awards committee wrote, “This dissertation is a major contribution to Kenneth Burke's studies, of course, but also women's studies. [T]he story of Libby [Burke] is touching. This is a work that I would like to read again in the future."
The award includes a $1,000 prize supported by the Vitanza family and Clemson’s RCID/Interdisciplinary Studies.
In accepting the award, Dr. Hartness said, “This award is truly an honor. I certainly did not expect it, especially in the midst of such incredible talent. I'm both humbled and motivated to continue The Burkean Herstory and get it published. Working with such a uniquely creative and talented family while writing this dissertation has absolutely been an inspiration.”
NWFSC Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Jenna Sheffield congratulates Dr. Hartness on her honor. “NWFSC is lucky to have talented instructors like Dr. Hartness on our faculty. Dr. Hartness’ commitment to this research undoubtedly enriched her own scholarly life and will help her further enrich the lives of our students through her teaching.”
Located in the coastal heart of the Florida Panhandle, Northwest Florida State College (NWFSC) has earned a reputation for educational excellence and community involvement. As part of Florida’s public system of 28 state and community colleges, NWFSC offers bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, and certificates. The College’s primary service district stretches from the Gulf of Mexico to the Alabama state line.
For more information about Northwest Florida State College, visit www.nwfsc.edu or contact the Office of Strategic Communications at stratcomm@nwfsc.edu.
Picture – Dr. Heather Hartness, Associate Professor of Rhetoric and Composition at Northwest Florida State College
