Cara Hairston

Cara Hairston is a Teaching Instructor in the English Department at East Carolina University (ECU). She specializes in screenwriting for features/shorts, stage plays, and explores genres like horror/psychological thrillers and comedy. Her research interests include generational trauma in Black women, creative writing pedagogy, and film theory. She holds a B.A. and M.A. in English from ECU, with additional TESOL certification.

Education:

• B.A. in English, East Carolina University
• M.A. in English (Creative Writing), East Carolina University
• TESOL Certification, East Carolina University

Research Focus: Ms. Hairston's work bridges creative writing and academic disciplines, emphasizing generational trauma narratives and innovative approaches to first-year composition through creative writing. Her film studies scholarship critiques media representation and journalistic practices.

Awards:

• 2020-2021: Bertie E. Fearing Award for Excellence in Teaching
• 2023-2024: Richard Bland College Faculty Excellence Award
• 2023-2024: Multiple screenplay competition semifinalist/finalist placements

Teaching & Advising: Teaches ENGL 1100: First-Year Writing. Actively involved in undergraduate programs including Professional Writing and Information Design. No listed grants or formal advising roles beyond coursework.