Sally Connolly

Dr. Sally Connolly is an esteemed Associate Professor of English at the University of Houston, where she delves into the rich tapestry of American, British, and Irish verse. Her scholarly pursuits encompass a wide array of poetic forms and themes, including contemporary and modern poetry, elegy, epic, confessional and post-confessional verse, as well as queer, ekphratic, and transatlantic poetry. Her academic journey is marked by a commitment to exploring the intricate connections between these diverse poetic traditions. In addition to her role as a professor, Dr. Connolly serves as the Associate Dean of Student and Faculty Success for the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences. Her leadership in this capacity underscores her dedication to fostering an environment of academic excellence and support for both students and faculty members. Her previous academic engagements include a prestigious tenure as a Visiting Fellow at Harvard University, where she further honed her expertise, and a teaching position at Wake Forest University, where she inspired countless students with her passion for literature. Dr. Connolly's contributions to the field of poetry have been recognized through numerous prestigious honors and awards. Among these accolades is the Kennedy Scholarship at Harvard University, a testament to her scholarly excellence and potential. Additionally, she was the recipient of the UH New Faculty Grant, which supported her innovative research endeavors. Her scholarly output includes two significant books: "Grief and Meter: Elegies for Poets After Auden," which examines the elegiac tradition in poetry, and "Ranches of Isolation: Transatlantic Poetry," a work that explores the cross-cultural dialogues within poetic forms. Her research has been widely published in esteemed journals, including Poetry, The London Evening Standard, and Literary Imagination, where her articles have contributed to the ongoing discourse in literary studies. Dr. Connolly's work is characterized by a keen analytical eye and a deep appreciation for the nuances of poetic expression. Her insights have enriched the understanding of poetry's role in cultural and historical contexts, making her a respected voice in the field. Dr. Connolly's academic journey is driven by a profound love for poetry and a desire to uncover the layers of meaning within verse. Her research interests reflect a commitment to exploring the intersections of identity, culture, and language in poetic forms. Through her teaching, she inspires students to engage critically with literature and to appreciate the transformative power of poetry. As a scholar, educator, and leader, Dr. Sally Connolly continues to make significant contributions to the field of English literature. Her work not only advances academic knowledge but also enriches the lives of those who encounter her scholarship. Her dedication to her craft and her students is evident in every aspect of her career, making her a valued member of the academic community.