Dr. Nick-Myrca (Nicky) Layten is an Associate Lecturer in the Department of Modern Languages at the University of Central Florida (UCF), where she has been teaching for more than a decade. She holds a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction (Ed.D.) with a specialization in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) from the University of Central Florida. She also earned a master's in French Language and Literature, with a minor in ESOL Education, from the University of South Florida. In addition, Dr. Layten studied abroad at the prestigious Sorbonne University in Paris, further strengthening her expertise in French language, literature, and culture.

Dr. Layten’s scholarly work focuses primarily on adult second-language acquisition, with particular attention to effective pedagogical strategies that promote language development and academic success among adult learners. Her research interests encompass second and foreign language acquisition, Haitian Creole linguistic and grammatical structures, and twentieth and twenty-first century French literature, including Francophone Caribbean and African literatures. Through her research, she seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of language learning processes while highlighting the linguistic and cultural dimensions that shape language education.

As an educator, Dr. Layten teaches French and Haitian Creole language and culture. Throughout her academic career, she has taught a broad range of French courses, from elementary to advanced levels, providing students with opportunities to develop linguistic proficiency as well as cultural competence. Most recently, she successfully led a study-abroad program in France, providing students with an immersive educational experience that connected classroom learning with authentic linguistic and cultural contexts. Dr. Layten also played a foundational role in establishing Haitian Creole instruction at UCF and currently serves as the Director of the Haitian Creole Program. Her teaching philosophy is grounded in a deep commitment to language education, intercultural understanding, and the development of students’ linguistic and academic abilities.

Beyond her teaching and research responsibilities, Dr. Layten is actively engaged in supporting student life and fostering an inclusive academic community at UCF. She serves as faculty advisor to three Creole student organizations, where she encourages student leadership, cultural engagement, and a strong sense of community and identity. Through these efforts, she contributes to the visibility and appreciation of Creole languages and cultures within the UCF community.

Overall, Dr. Layten’s academic career reflects a sustained commitment to language education, scholarship, and student success. Her work in French and Haitian Creole education, combined with her research on second-language acquisition and Francophone literature, positions her as a dedicated educator and scholar whose contributions extend beyond the classroom. Through her teaching, research, study-abroad initiatives, and mentorship of student organizations, she continues to promote linguistic diversity, intercultural understanding, and meaningful engagement with the languages and cultures she represents.