Colleen Warren

Colleen Warren is a Professor of English at Taylor University, located in Upland, Indiana, where she has served for over 30 years. She holds a PhD in Twentieth Century American Literature from the University of Florida, along with an MA in American Literature and a BA in English Education from Olivet Nazarene College. Her research focuses on American literature, critical theory, and the works of Annie Dillard and Flannery O’Connor. Notable accomplishments include a NEA grant for studying Faulkner, the publication of three books—including Annie Dillard and the Word Made Flesh: An Incarnational Theory of Language—and full professor status at Taylor University. She has also been awarded multiple sabbaticals to pursue her scholarly work.

Her research interests blend literary analysis with Christian perspectives, evident in her books such as Reentering Eden: Christian Meditation in Nature and The First Verb: Cultivating Christian Creativity. She frequently publishes scholarly articles on Flannery O’Connor, focusing on themes like symbolism, race, and theological narratives. Her work often bridges literary criticism with religious and existential themes, reflecting her belief that literature serves as a ministry within God’s kingdom.

Professional accolades include her NEA grant and her sustained contributions to Flannery O’Connor scholarship. Beyond academia, Warren is deeply involved in writing creative nonfiction and maintains a blog (1womanwandering.wordpress.com). Her personal interests include artistry in leatherworking, calligraphy, and hiking, while her family life includes four adult children and grandchildren.