Gerdine Ulysse

Gerdine Ulysse is an esteemed Assistant Instructional Professor specializing in French and Haitian Creole (Kreyòl) at the University of Chicago. Her academic journey is marked by a Ph.D. in Second Language Acquisition from Carnegie Mellon University, complemented by a Master's degree in French and Teaching French as a Foreign Language from the University of Arizona. Born in La Gonâve, Haiti, Professor Ulysse brings a rich cultural and linguistic heritage to her teaching and research. Her scholarly pursuits are deeply rooted in the dynamics of language variation, multilingualism, and literacy development, particularly within Creolophone communities. Professor Ulysse is passionate about examining the socio-economic factors that influence language attitudes and policy, especially in the context of multilingual Haiti. Her work often explores how these factors shape the linguistic landscape and affect educational outcomes. Throughout her career, Professor Ulysse has imparted her knowledge of French and Kreyòl at various esteemed institutions, fostering a deeper understanding of these languages and their cultural contexts. Her teaching portfolio at the University of Chicago includes courses such as Beginning Elementary French, Kreyòl for Speakers of French, Haitian Language, Society, and Culture, and Francophone Caribbean Culture and Society. These courses reflect her commitment to providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the linguistic and cultural intricacies of the Francophone world. Professor Ulysse's research is characterized by a keen interest in the interplay between language and society. She is particularly intrigued by how socio-economic factors impact language attitudes and policy decisions, which in turn affect literacy development and language variation. Her work contributes to a broader understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by multilingual communities, particularly in Haiti. In addition to her teaching and research, Professor Ulysse is actively involved in initiatives that promote language education and cultural awareness. She believes in the transformative power of language learning and strives to create an inclusive and engaging learning environment for her students. Her dedication to her field is evident in her ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between academic research and practical language education. Professor Ulysse's contributions to the field of language education and her commitment to exploring the socio-cultural dimensions of language make her a valuable asset to the University of Chicago and the broader academic community. Her work continues to inspire students and colleagues alike, fostering a deeper appreciation for the complexities of language and culture.