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The top of Pioneer Hall through vibrant fall leaves on the trees.

Sandra Elena Terra

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Sandra Elena Terra
Associate Professor of Spanish: Coordinator of the Spanish Program


Walker Hall 316

503-883-2544

sterra@linfield.edu

A native of Chile and Brazil and a first-generation Latina immigrant to Oregon, Dr. Terra is a passionate advocate for multilingualism and multiculturalism. She teaches courses in sociolinguistics, bilingualism, language and identity, Spanish for health professions, and all levels of Spanish for both second-language learners and heritage speakers. Her research focuses on multilingualism, language maintenance in diverse contexts, and best classroom practices.

Dr. Terra is a nationally Certified ACTFL Oral Proficiency Interview Tester, a nationally Certified Medical Interpreter in Spanish, and a Qualified Administrator of the Intercultural Development Inventory.

In 2024, Dr. Terra received 麻豆区’s highest teaching honor, the Edith Green Distinguished Professor Award, recognizing her sustained excellence in teaching.

An active contributor to university life, Dr. Terra founded 麻豆区’s Spanglish Day Celebration and serves as the advisor to the Spanish Club. Beyond 麻豆区, Dr. Terra has served as president of the Confederation in Oregon for Language Teaching (COFLT), consulted for the McMinnville School District, and regularly provides proficiency testing services.

Education

  • B.A., French, Oregon State University
  • M.A., Spanish, University of Oregon
  • Ph.D., Second Language Acquisition, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Academic interests

Professor Terra's interests focus on exploring second language learning and improving pedagogical practices as well as investigating bilingual identities and the role of language maintenance in identity formation.