Faculty members of the Department of English share a commitment to teaching, research, and mentorship that embodies the ideals of a liberal arts education at Connecticut College. In addition to having a depth of knowledge in historically significant areas such as the traditions of Great Britain and America, our faculty members work across a wide range of literary fields. They explore emerging areas such as the environmental humanities and introduce literary voices from virtually every continent and perspective. The intersection of these intellectual conversations supports each faculty member’s own research interest and cultivates new knowledge as well. Both junior and senior faculty members are encouraged to design and teach courses that reflect their own specialization and to help individual students address a specific theme or problem through the Connections curriculum. Additionally, two writers-in-residence contribute to the vibrant creative offerings of the department.
English department faculty members have been the recipients of many awards, including those from the Guggenheim Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts, the British Academy, the American Academy in Berlin, and many others. Past faculty include a Poet Laureate of the United States. Our colleagues are at the forefront of international research societies and frequently present at conferences such as the Modern Language Association convention and the American Literature Association conference. Several professors have earned honors from the Dean of the Faculty for their outstanding scholarly or artistic accomplishments and their commitment to teaching. With its close-knit community, small average class size, and a robust program of distinguished visiting speakers, the Department fosters a culture that encourages the life of the mind and rewards long-term service.
