Maggie Jones

Maggie Jones is a Teaching Professor in the Department of English at the University of Pittsburgh’s Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts & Sciences. She is a prominent contributing writer for The New York Times Magazine, focusing on social issues including youth culture, immigration, gender dynamics, racial justice, and death rituals. Her reporting spans global locations like Japan, Thailand, South Korea, Myanmar, Guatemala, and across the U.S., emphasizing intersectional narratives.

Her research interests revolve around the sociocultural dimensions of mortality, aging, digital identity, and marginalized communities’ struggles. Notable works include explorations of pandemic-era funeral practices, online pornography’s impact on adolescents, and adoptee repatriation movements. Jones holds a 2012 Nieman Fellowship from Harvard University and a 2014 Senior Ochberg Fellowship from Columbia University’s Dart Center, reflecting her expertise in trauma-informed journalism.

Her articles critically examine contemporary societal challenges, blending investigative rigor with humanistic storytelling. Awards include National Magazine Award finalist status. While no formal advising roles are listed, her journalism often engages with educational themes through public discourse. Jones maintains active participation in literary and journalistic communities via platforms like The Smithsonian, Smithsonian Magazine, and the Pittsburgh Contemporary Writers Series.