Whitney Koo

Dr. Whitney Koo is at the leading edge of contemporary literary scholarship and creative writing, serving as an Assistant Professor in the English Department at Texas Tech University. With a PhD in English-Creative Writing from Oklahoma State University and a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from the University of Colorado Boulder, Dr. Koo brings a rich academic background and a passion for innovative literary forms to her teaching and research. Her scholarly pursuits are deeply rooted in the tradition of the elegy, exploring its transformation through the lenses of documentary poetics and the pervasive theme of mass violence in America. Dr. Koo's work seeks to bridge the gap between traditional poetic forms and modern societal issues, offering new insights into how literature can reflect and respond to contemporary challenges. In addition to her academic endeavors, Dr. Koo is an accomplished poet and nonfiction writer, with her works featured in a variety of esteemed publications. Her writing often delves into themes of memory, loss, and resilience, resonating with readers through its emotional depth and intellectual rigor. Dr. Koo is also the Founder and Editor in Chief of Gasher Press, a nonprofit book press dedicated to publishing innovative and diverse voices in literature. Through Gasher Press, she champions emerging writers and fosters a community of creative expression and literary exploration. Her commitment to both her students and her craft is evident in her dynamic teaching style and her active engagement with the literary community. Dr. Koo continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of writers and scholars, encouraging them to explore the intersections of poetics, history, and social justice in their own work.