African American Studies faculty members have made valuable contributions to the field of African American and African Studies in the United States and around the world. The geographical focus of the department's teaching and research is the United States Black Experience with a particular emphasis in Appalachia.
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African American Research and Service Institute
The institute encourages interdisciplinary and community-based research related to experiences of people of African descent. Its primary research focus is on African American experiences in rural America, especially the Ohio River Valley.
Recent Faculty Accomplishments
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The 90-year Journey of a Harlem Renaissance NovelWith help from Dr. Gary Edwards Holcomb, Claude McKay's "Romance in Marseille" groundbreaking and inclusive novel made it to bookshelves.
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Addressing Racial Capitalism’s Impact on Black Essential Workers During COVID-19Dr. Jocelyn Brown describes the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on Black essential workers, outlines the socioeconomic and racial barriers related to vaccination, and suggests policy-related approaches.
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Prissy’s Quittin’ Time: The Black Camp Aesthetics of Kara WalkerDr. Brian Shephens' article examines how Kara Walker's "Gone" utilizes black camp to undermine both white supremacist and restrictive black uplift discourse.
Black Life in the Ohio Valley Conference
Scholars and community members delved into four centuries of Black history and heritage.