Retreat Directors

The Retreat is co-directed by Sonja K. Foss and William Waters.

Sonja K. Foss is a professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Colorado at Denver. She earned a doctorate in communication from Northwestern University and gained expertise in professional development while teaching at a number of universities, including Virginia Tech, Ohio State University, and the University of Oregon.

Dr. Foss knows the academic publication process both as an author of 7 books and over 30 articles and as a former journal editor and member of numerous editorial boards.

Dr. Foss' effectiveness in facilitating the development of professionals in academia is evident in the success of the 35 doctoral advisees she has mentored. All of them completed their dissertations, and many are active, publishing scholars.

Dr. William Waters is an assistant professor of English and the Writing Program Coordinator at Northwest Missouri State University. Dr. Waters completed his doctorate at the University of New Mexico, and his creativity, intelligence, ability to conceptualize research schemas, and computer expertise make him a valuable part of Scholars' Retreat.