We are surrounded by stories every day. Books, poetry, music, television, movies, viral memes and videos, graphic novels, pictures, architecture. The best ones reach into our soul and foster connections between the reader/view and author/creator.  These connections help us find a sense of belonging. Each shared reading experience creates a community. 

My interests in teaching and research are exploring all types of stories, the connections they foster, and the communities that are built around them.

Dr. Matthew Panozzo (he/him) is an Assistant Professor of Literacy in the Department of Instruction and Curriculum Leadership at the University of Memphis. His teaching and research area includes exploring identity, empathy and humanity through literacy, arts-based education research, and LGBTQ children’s and young adult books.