Anna Babel

Anna Babel is an esteemed associate professor in the Department of Spanish and Portuguese at Ohio State University. With a profound expertise in sociolinguistics and linguistic anthropology, she has carved a niche for herself as a specialist in language contact. Her scholarly pursuits are deeply rooted in understanding the intricate relationship between language and social categories, with a particular focus on language contact environments. Babel's academic journey has led her to the Santa Cruz valleys of Bolivia, where she has conducted extensive field research. Her work in this region culminated in the publication of her insightful book, "Between the Andes and the Amazon: Language and Social Meaning in Bolivia." This publication is a testament to her dedication to exploring the nuances of language and its social implications. In addition to her research, Babel is recognized for her expertise in sociolinguistics and qualitative research methods. Her scholarly interests extend to Andean Spanish and the dynamics of Spanish in the United States, areas in which she has contributed significantly through her research and teaching. As an educator, Anna Babel is committed to imparting knowledge on various aspects of language variation and contact. She offers a range of courses that delve into language variation in Spanish, US Latino languages and communities, and Spanish in the US. Her curriculum also includes studies in Spanish synchronic linguistics and language contact in the Spanish-speaking world, alongside qualitative methods. Babel's contributions to the field of linguistics are marked by her dedication to understanding and teaching the complexities of language in social contexts. Her work continues to inspire students and colleagues alike, fostering a deeper appreciation for the dynamic interplay between language and society.