Shannon Zeller

Shannon K. Zeller, MA, is a Research Scientist II at the Institute for Research in the Social Sciences (IRISS), the Associate Director of CLEaR, and affiliate faculty in the Department of LGS at CSU. Her research focuses on improving communication and intercultural understanding between English-speaking professionals and the Spanish-dominant communities they serve. Zeller develops evidence-based language and intercultural curricula for professional settings, with particular emphasis on animal care fields. Her work centers on veterinary medicine and animal agriculture, where she has collaborated with faculty and external partners across disciplines to design innovative courses and certificate programs in Animal Health Spanish and Spanish for the Veterinary Professional. Zeller’s scholarship contributes to the field of Languages for Specific Purposes (LSP) through research on Language Needs Analysis, curriculum design, and professional discourse. Her publications and presentations demonstrate evidence-based approaches to translating workplace communication and intercultural needs into scalable educational models. She works closely with professionals and Spanish-speaking community members to identify communication barriers and develop equitable, culturally responsive language training that improves access to services, workplace cohesion, and the development of trust and shared understanding.