Joanna Davis-McElligatt

Dedicated to nurturing talent in the field of Black Literary and Cultural Studies, Joanna Davis-McElligatt serves as an Assistant Professor at the University of North Texas. Her academic journey is marked by a profound commitment to exploring the intricate intersections of blackness, immigration, alienness, temporality, and nationalisms. With a keen focus on Afrodiasporic speculative fiction, her research delves into the concept of Black Alienhood, offering fresh perspectives on identity and belonging. Joanna's scholarly contributions have been featured in esteemed journals such as "south" and "Mississippi Quarterly," where her work continues to influence and inspire. Her role as a co-editor of several volumes further underscores her dedication to advancing the discourse in her field. Her interdisciplinary approach is evident in her affiliations with Women's and Gender Studies and LGBT Studies, reflecting her commitment to inclusivity and diversity in academia. At the University of North Texas, Joanna teaches a variety of courses, including Africana Studies, Critical Race and Ethnic Studies, Literary Theory, and Comics Studies. Her dynamic teaching style and passion for the subject matter have made her a beloved figure among students, who benefit from her extensive knowledge and innovative approach to education. Joanna's involvement extends beyond the classroom, as she actively participates in organizations such as the William Faulkner Society and the Comics Studies Society. These affiliations highlight her dedication to fostering a vibrant academic community and her commitment to the continuous evolution of her field. Before her tenure at the University of North Texas, Joanna spent nine years at the University of Louisiana, where she honed her skills and developed her research interests. Her time there laid the foundation for her current work, and she remains deeply connected to the academic communities she has been a part of throughout her career.