ISU’s own Dr. Daniel Everett, chair of the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures, has been named ISU’s first University Professor, a title that honors faculty members who are nationally recognized scholars and teachers.

The title is endorsed by Illinois State’s Academic Senate, and can appoint up to two University Professors each year from within the Illinois State community.  

“My immediate reaction was that I am only one of many scholars, but I was grateful. My research has gotten a lot of attention, and I am very honored,” Everett said of receiving the news for the first time.

Everett completed his Ph.D. in linguistics at the State University of Campinas in Brazil and taught at that institution from 1980 to 1986. He then moved to the University of Pittsburgh, University of Manchester, England, and then finally returned to America to become the department chair at ISU.

“My research in the Amazon has given me unique experiences. All of my ideas come from the indigenous people of the Amazon. I attribute so much of my success to these people, whom I lived with for six years,” Everett said. “Lots of my claims have drawn controversy.”

Everett’s research concluded that human language is not an inherent characteristic in humans, but that it is developed in each individual based on general human intellect, problem solving and cultural learning. This research contradicts the most popular theory of language, causing a lot or recognition worldwide.

“There is a documentary of my life coming out soon. I have had several filmmakers approach me about creating a movie about my life. Even two Hollywood producers have contacted me, one being Lawrence Turman, the producer of ‘The Graduate.’

“I decided to go with an Australian team. They traveled to the Amazon with me and will again in March,” Everett said about the upcoming documentary titled “The Grammar of Happiness.”

Aside from film, Everett has published more than 90 articles and six books. His latest book has been translated into six languages and published in eight countries.Profiles about his research have also been published in the New Yorker Magazine, New Scientist, GEO Magazine, Gehirn & Geist, Scientific American Mind and Science News.

Dr. Jim Stanlaw, professor of anthropology and anthropology program coordinator, explained that having Everett on staff is very exciting.

“His approach to language and cognition is revolutionary and controversial. His work certainly challenges Chomsky and is interesting to not only linguists but anthropologists. It makes him fun to have around,” Stanlaw said.

Stanlaw continued in saying not only is the staff lucky to have Everett at ISU, but the students benefit equally.

“Students would find his classes informative and exciting. They’ll get things he’s doing that they won’t get anywhere else. I am not at all surprised he was given this honor.”

A non-final promo video for “The Grammar of Happiness” along with all of Everett’s publications and research activity can be found on Everett’s homepage at llc.illinoisstate.edu/dlevere/.