Naima Coster

Naima Coster is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Journalism & Writing Profess at Baruch College's Weissman School of Arts and Sciences. A New York Times bestselling author and National Book Foundation '5 Under 35' honoree, her novels explore complex social dynamics including gentrification, family relationships, and cultural identity. She teaches undergraduate courses in fiction writing, creative nonfiction, and narrative journalism.

Her research interests include:

• Fiction writing and narrative theory
• African American literary traditions
• Latinx cultural studies
• Gentrification and urban social change
• Intergenerational trauma in literature
• Creative nonfiction methodologies

Professor Coster has received numerous literary honors including:

• Kirkus Prize Finalist (2018)
• One Maryland One Book Prize (2022)
• Mark Twain American Voice in Literature Longlist
• Margaret Lamb Prize for Fiction (2-time recipient)
• Juno Grant for writer-parents

Through the Harman Writer-in-Residence program and external initiatives like Girls Write Now, she mentors emerging writers while maintaining an active publishing career with forthcoming work scheduled through 2026.