Marcelitte Failla Hendred

Marcelitte Failla Hendred is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies at North Carolina State University. She holds a Ph.D. in American Religious Cultures from Emory University, with a certificate in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. Her research focuses on contemporary Black witches and their use of African diasporic religions for manifestation, healing, and resisting anti-Blackness. As a practitioner of Ifá/Òrìṣà traditions and Hoodoo, she engages in ceremonial work across academic and community contexts.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Graduate Division of Religion, Emory University (2023)

Research Interests: Marcelitte’s work bridges religious studies, critical race theory, and gender studies. She explores how diasporic spiritual practices empower marginalized communities, particularly through ritual and communal healing. Her current book project analyzes the intersection of Black witchcraft traditions and systemic anti-Black oppression.

Awards:

• Mellon/ACLS Dissertation Completion Fellowship

Engagement & Affiliations: She is affiliated with NC State’s Africana Studies program and actively collaborates with interdisciplinary teams. Her community-focused research emphasizes practical applications of ritual in social justice frameworks.