Matthew Heard Ph.D.

Dr. Matthew Heard specializes in Rhetoric and Writing Studies with a focus on rhetorical theory, ethics, tonality, and civic responsibility. His most recent scholarly work includes "Rhetoric in Dimness," a chapter in Reinventing (with) Theory in Rhetoric and Writing Studies (Utah State UP 2019), and "Rhetoric and the Rise of Foster Care," an article in Rhetoric Review. These texts are part of his current book project, Fostering Rhetoric, which focuses on intersections of rhetorical theory, policy, and ethical practice in the American foster care system. His other work has appeared in Abducting Writing Studies (Southern Illinois UP 2016), Philosophy and Rhetoric, College English, JAC, Pedagogy, WPA, and College Literature. He currently serves as the director of UNT's first-year writing program and has served in the past as a Lead QEP Evaluator for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). He received his Ph.D. from the University of California, Riverside, in 2007.