Keith Jenkins

Keith Jenkins is a Professor of Communication at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), serving as Vice President and Associate Provost for Diversity and Inclusion. He holds a BA from the University of Arkansas and an MA/PhD from Florida State University. His career includes roles as RIT’s first Assistant Provost for Diversity and Director of Undergraduate Programs in the School of Communication.

Professor Jenkins’ research focuses on intercultural communication, political rhetoric, and the rhetoric of inclusion, particularly in Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign. He teaches courses like Intercultural Communication and Rhetoric of Race Relations, emphasizing historical and contemporary racial dynamics in America.

He has received numerous awards, including RIT’s Eisenhart Award for Teaching and the Isaac L. Jordan Pluralism Award. His scholarship spans diverse topics, from systemic racism analysis to historical reinterpretation, often intersecting with social justice themes.

• Advising: No named advisees listed.
• Grants: Not explicitly detailed in provided texts.

As a leader in DEI initiatives, Jenkins oversees programs like the Partnerships in Pluralism Initiative and contributed to RIT’s HEED Award recognition. His work bridges academia and institutional leadership, fostering inclusive environments through policy and pedagogy.