Edward McPherson

Edward McPherson serves as Associate Professor of English and Director of English Undergraduate Studies at Washington University in St. Louis. With an MFA from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, he has established himself as a prominent figure in creative writing education and literary scholarship.

McPherson's academic journey began at the University of Minnesota where he earned his MFA and received the Gesell Award. Before joining Washington University, he served as Interim Education Director at the Loft Literary Center and taught creative writing at the University of Minnesota, establishing a foundation for his current role shaping undergraduate English studies.

His research interests center on nonfiction writing, the essay form, life writing, and fiction writing, with particular focus on how American places and histories intersect with contemporary experience. McPherson's work consistently explores the relationship between past and present, examining how historical narratives shape current American identities and landscapes. His writing often blends personal narrative with cultural analysis, creating a distinctive voice in contemporary literary nonfiction.

McPherson's publications reveal a consistent engagement with American cultural phenomena, from bridge playing to silent film comedy to urban landscapes. His work demonstrates how seemingly niche subjects can illuminate broader cultural patterns and historical continuities. The recurring theme across his writing is American identity as shaped by history, place, and narrative tradition.

• Guggenheim Fellowship (2023)
• Pushcart Prize
• PEN Southwest Book Award in Nonfiction
• Gulf Coast Prize in Fiction
• Artist Fellowship from the Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis
• Minnesota State Arts Board grant
• Gesell Award from the University of Minnesota

As Director of English Undergraduate Studies, McPherson oversees curriculum development and student advising while maintaining an active writing career. His teaching focuses on creative nonfiction and essay writing, drawing from his extensive publication experience. Though specific grant information isn't detailed in the text, his numerous awards suggest significant recognition of his scholarly contributions. McPherson contributes to the literary community as a contributing editor of The Common Reader, helping shape contemporary literary discourse.