Background & Selected Experience

Maria Steele graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Alaska Anchorage with a B.A. in English and a minor in history. Her studies included classes on literature, rhetoric, linguistics, and composition with an emphasis on English education. Maria is currently working towards an M.A. in English at UAA. As a graduate student, Maria worked as a teaching assistant and taught first year English composition at UAA. Maria is also working towards her Montessori certification and taking classes in early childhood development and education.

Maria is a lifelong Alaskan. She was born in Juneau, raised in Anchorage, and hopes to grow old in Alaska as well. Maria is also a reluctant world traveler. In 2003, she traveled to Berlin to participate in the world premiere of Paradise Lost: Shadow and Wings an opera electronica composed by Eric Whitacre. As part of the event she had the opportunity to sing in some of the most beautiful palaces and cathedrals in Germany, France, and Luxembourg. She has also traveled to Canada and Mexico and enjoys exploring local museums and ruins. In her spare time, Maria likes to listen to audiobooks, play online games, and paint.