Marianella Jara

Ms. Jara is a Senior Lecturer of Spanish at UNCW since 2004. She is a native of Costa Rica. She completed her undergraduate studies in Political Science and International Relations at Louisiana State University as a Fulbright scholar. She earned two M.A. degrees in Hispanic studies and Spanish from UNCW. She teaches courses in elementary and intermediate Spanish. Ms. Jara has experience and enjoys teaching in all modalities. In 2024, she was recognized with "The Excellence in Online Teaching Award" from the Distance Online Education Department at UNCW. In 2014, she received "The Lecturer of the Year Award" for excellence in teaching and service. In 2017 she was recognized with the "Discere Aude Award" for excellence in mentoring. She is passionate about studying abroad and plays a vital role in the implementation and promotion of study abroad programs at UNCW. She has directed and co-directed many study abroad programs since 2007. Ms. Jara was the Spanish Club Advisor for twelve consecutive years and regularly supports the local Hispanic community through community service and by encouraging students to help through different organizations. Her goal is to offer students the opportunity to grow professionally, personally and to become global citizens by engaging in study abroad programs and through community service. In her free time, she enjoys outdoor activities, reading, cooking and traveling.

Education

M.A. in Spanish, University of North Carolina Wilmington
M.A. in Hispanic Studies, University of North Carolina Wilmington
B.A. in Political Sciences and International Relations, Louisiana State University

Honors & Awards

Excellence in Online Education Award
Lecturer of The Year Award
Discere Aude Award for excellence in mentoring and teaching