In the world of college English programs, it’s essential to recognize the educators who not only teach but also inspire. Dr. Laura Smith, a prominent member of Stevenson University’s English faculty, embodies this ethos. Her tenure as Chair of the English Department from 2014 to 2023 has been marked by exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to excellence in the field of English studies.
Academic Contributions and Teaching:
Dr. Smith’s contributions to the university’s English major in college curriculum have been diverse and significant. She has taught a wide array of undergraduate English courses, ranging from ENG 401 Major Author Langston Hughes, ENG 281/381 LGBTQ Literature, ENG 326 Creative Writing Poetry Workshop, ENG 281 Protest Literature, ENG 287/385 20th Century American Poetry, and ENG 205 Fifteen Black Poets, among many others showcasing her versatility and expertise. Additionally, her courses ENG 231 Style and Editing and ENG 337 Grant Writing are especially relevant to those exploring English degree career opportunities. Dr. Smith’s ongoing involvement in the English program and her leadership in creative writing college courses have left an indelible mark on the students and the institution.
Scholarly Achievements:
The most recent highlight of Dr. Smith’s career is the publication of the book The American Sonnet: An Anthology of Poems and Essays, co-edited with Dora Malech. This scholarly collection, a notable addition to the scholarly study of contemporary American poetry, offers a comprehensive look at contemporary sonnets through both poems and critical essays, marking a significant contribution to American poetics and literature degree studies.
Other Recent Works:
For more of her recent work, look up Dr. Smith’s article, “Textuality in a Jazz Aesthetic: Textual Rituals for Transformation in Sharon Bridgforth’s love conjure/blues” in the journal Multi-ethnic Literature of the United States. The works explores the text’s contribution to jazz literature. Look ahead for Dr. Smith’s upcoming article titled “Interconnectivity, Contagion, Collaboration: The Pandemic Sonnets of Cindy Tran and Craig Santos Perez,” which explores the role of pandemic sonnet collaborations.
Engagements and Public Appearances:
Dr. Smith’s engagement extends beyond the classroom. She was featured in the Enoch Pratt Library’s Writers Live series, discussing her book and its impact on English literature classes. Watch the insightful conversation here. Additionally, her Q&A session on Publishers Weekly’s Tumblr offers fascinating insights into the strengths of the American sonnet, relevant to those exploring English degree career opportunities. Read the full Q&A here.
Looking Forward:
In addition to her teaching and scholarship, Dr. Smith continues to contribute to the Stevenson English department’s activities , fostering its community of writers, readers, and professionals. Dr. Laura Smith’s work at Stevenson University is a testament to her dedication to developing Stevenson English into one of the best English programs. Her scholarly and teaching work has not only enriched the university’s English curriculum but also opened numerous pathways for students pursuing an English degree. Stevenson University prides itself on having faculty like Dr. Smith, who bring depth, diversity, and dynamism to the study of English.
Additional Resources and Readings: