Blake Wilder

Blake Wilder is a Senior Lecturer in the English Department at the University of Maryland, College of Arts & Humanities. He holds a PhD from The Ohio State University, with prior degrees from North Carolina State University (MA) and Oberlin College (BA in History and English). His research focuses on multi-ethnic perspectives, critical race theory, and narrative worldmaking in Jim Crow America. He is currently completing a book project on Black soldiers' literary representations during the interwar period. Wilder is a recipient of the 2019 English Department Teaching Excellence Award, recognizing his student-centered approach and contributions to inclusive education.

Education:

• PhD in English, The Ohio State University
• MA in English, North Carolina State University
• BA in History and English (Creative Writing), Oberlin College

Wilder’s teaching spans courses like 'African American Literature,' 'Business Writing,' and 'This is English: Fields and Methods.' His work bridges performance studies and gender theory, emphasizing socially responsible scholarship. He has contributed to journals such as New Directions for Teaching and Learning and Narrative, Race, and Ethnicity in the Americas.

Awards & Contributions:

• 2019 Teaching Excellence Award (University of Maryland)
• Author of chapters on educational development and African American literary history

As an Undergraduate Advisor, Wilder emphasizes reflective practice and resourcefulness, advising students to 'reflect often and act deliberately.' His professional experience includes roles at Ohio State’s Center for the Teaching and Study of Writing, furthering his commitment to pedagogical innovation and institutional support.