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Maria Kalbermatten is a scholar and educator in Hispanic Studies. She teaches courses in Spanish language, culture, and linguistics. Her work centers on the study of humor in discourse, with a particular focus on verbal irony, political humor, and the ways humor operates in contexts of power, ideology, and social interaction. Drawing on approaches from pragmatics, discourse analysis, and critical literacy, her research examines how humor functions not only as entertainment but also as a tool for critique, affiliation, and meaning-making in everyday communication.

Her scholarship includes analyses of spontaneous conversations and media texts, exploring how speakers use irony and humor to negotiate relationships, express stance, and challenge dominant narratives. She has a particular interest in humor in Spanish-speaking contexts, including Latin America, and her recent work engages with questions of political discourse, manipulation, and the role of humor in shaping public opinion. Her research has been presented at national and international conferences and contributes to ongoing interdisciplinary conversations about language, culture, and society.

Kalbermatten is deeply committed to student-centered teaching and to creating an engaging, inclusive classroom environment. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes active learning, critical thinking, and the development of interpretive skills that allow students to analyze language and culture in meaningful ways. She frequently integrates her research into her courses, designing classes that invite students to explore authentic materials such as political cartoons, media discourse, and everyday interactions. In courses like Political Humor and Manipulation, she applies a critical literacy framework to help students examine how humor can both reinforce and challenge systems of power.

Kalbermatten teaches across the Spanish curriculum, from introductory language courses to advanced content courses, and contributes to interdisciplinary programs that engage with global perspectives, media, and cultural studies. She values mentoring students at all levels and enjoys supporting them in developing linguistic proficiency alongside cultural awareness and analytical skills.

In addition to her teaching and research, Kalbermatten is actively involved in service at the College and within the broader academic community. She contributes to curriculum development, participates in collaborative initiatives, and engages in professional activities that connect her work to wider scholarly and educational networks.

One of her favorite aspects of teaching at Gustavus is the opportunity to work closely with students in a liberal arts setting, where discussion, curiosity, and intellectual exploration are central. She values the strong sense of community on campus and the ways in which students bring diverse perspectives into the classroom.

Outside of her academic work, Kalbermatten enjoys creative and cultural activities that complement her scholarly interests, including drawing, exploring global cuisines, and engaging with music and the arts. These interests often inform her teaching and contribute to the dynamic, culturally rich learning experiences she fosters in her courses.

Prior to joining the Gustavus faculty in 1990, Mark worked in broadcasting. He brings extensive administrative experience spanning more than 15 years, including nine years as Chief Academic Officer—serving as Provost at Gustavus Adolphus College and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at Augustana University. He previously held the position of Associate Dean of the College at Gustavus for seven years.

Mark has an extensive record of service to the field of higher education and was recognized nationally by the Council of Independent Colleges with its Chief Academic Officer Award. He served on the executive committee of the board of directors for the American Conference of Academic Deans, on assessment and planning teams for the Association of American Colleges and Universities, and on the board of directors for the Broadcast Education Association in Washington DC. He also chaired the board of directors of The Collaboration for the Advancement of College Teaching and Learning, and was on the executive committee of the board for the Communication and Theater Association of Minnesota. He was awarded the Outstanding Citizen Award from the City of Mankato for his work with the Department of Public Safety.