Layli Maparyan

Layli Maparyan is a Professor of Africana Studies and Executive Director of the Wellesley Centers for Women at Wellesley College. Her work focuses on womanist theory, self-care, healing, and social justice. She is the author of *The Womanist Idea* and editor of *The Womanist Reader*, and her latest publication, *Womanism Rising*, expands womanist discourse into new interdisciplinary and activist spaces. Maparyan’s research emphasizes intersectional approaches to addressing systemic oppression, environmental justice, and inclusive futurism.

• Affiliations: Wellesley Centers for Women, Wellesley College Department of Africana Studies

Her current projects include curating visual artist contributions to womanist scholarship and applying womanist frameworks to global equity initiatives. Funded by Wellesley College and the Wellesley Centers for Women, her work bridges academia and activism.

Maparyan’s edited volume *Womanism Rising* (2025) features emerging scholars addressing themes like Earth healing, anti-dehumanization strategies, and womanist futurism. While no specific grants are detailed, her institutional roles suggest ongoing research support.