Charles Toombs

Charles Toombs is a Professor and Immediate Past Chair of Africana Studies at San Diego State University (SDSU). He holds multiple degrees from Purdue University: BA (English), MA (English), MS (Industrial Relations), and Ph.D. (English). His research focuses on Africana literature, Black Queer Studies, and social justice. He actively leads labor unions, serving as President of the California Faculty Association (CFA) and Vice President of SEIU California. He has been honored with the 2018 MLK Unsung Hero Award, 2014 SDSU Faculty Diversity Award, and 2011 African American Educator of San Diego County.

• Education: Purdue University (BA, MA, MS, Ph.D.)
• Leadership: U.S. union delegate to Shanghai Education Union (2018)
• Publications: Works on James Baldwin, Nella Larsen, and the Harlem Renaissance in San Diego

His advocacy spans anti-racism strategies in labor unions and cultural justice initiatives. Presentations include international engagements at Gorlovka State Pedagogical Institute in Ukraine.