George Saunders

George Saunders is a distinguished author and lecturer affiliated with Purchase College's School of Humanities and Syracuse University's Creative Writing Program. He served as a Lecturer in the Durst Distinguished Lecture Series during the 2016-2017 academic year. Saunders is renowned for his literary contributions, including award-winning short stories, essays, and novels such as Lincoln in the Bardo (2017) and Tenth of December (2013). His work has been featured in The New Yorker, and he has received prestigious honors like the MacArthur Fellowship and Guggenheim Fellowship.

His research interests center on creative writing, narrative innovation, and the exploration of ethical and existential themes in fiction. Saunders’ writings often blend satire, humor, and deep philosophical inquiry, reflecting his commitment to contemporary literary traditions.

• Awards: MacArthur Fellowship ("Genius Grant"), Guggenheim Fellowship, Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People (2013).
• Publications: Short story collections, novels, and essays, with works frequently published in The New Yorker.

While no formal grants or labs are explicitly noted, Saunders’ influence extends through his teaching and literary output, shaping both academic and popular literary landscapes.