She has taught a variety of writing courses, including advanced rhetoric courses. Her research interests include visual rhetoric, community engagement, literacy practices of multilingual writers, race studies, and first-year writing. Vanessa also is a Fuse Associate Board Member, as well as Chair of Fuse’s Community Development Committee, which organizes the Fireside Chat Series. She loves any outdoor activities that involve mountains; her favorites include skiing, backpacking, camping, and hiking.