Ken Hiltner

Professor with a passion for advancing studies in literature and the environment, Ken Hiltner is a distinguished faculty member in the English Department at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Holding a PhD from Harvard University, he has dedicated his academic career to exploring the rich intersections between environmental studies and Renaissance literature. His scholarly work delves deeply into how these fields inform and influence each other, offering fresh perspectives on both historical and contemporary issues. Before embarking on his academic journey, Professor Hiltner honed his skills as a furniture-maker, a craft that took him around the globe with various commissions. This unique background enriches his approach to literature and environmental studies, providing a practical understanding of material culture and its historical contexts. His transition from craftsmanship to academia underscores a lifelong commitment to understanding and interpreting the world through multiple lenses. At UCSB, Professor Hiltner also serves as the Director of the Environmental Humanities Center, where he leads initiatives that bridge the gap between literature and environmental advocacy. His work in this role emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to tackling environmental challenges, drawing on his expertise in Medieval history and ecocriticism. Through his leadership, the center has become a hub for innovative research and dialogue on environmental issues. In addition to his administrative and teaching roles, Professor Hiltner is an active contributor to the field of ecocriticism, publishing extensively on topics that highlight the critical role of literature in shaping environmental consciousness. His contributions have not only advanced academic discourse but have also inspired students and colleagues to engage deeply with the pressing environmental issues of our time.