Richard D. Benson II

Dr. Richard D. Benson II is an Associate Professor in the Department of Educational Foundations, Organizations, and Policy at the University of Pittsburgh's School of Education. He specializes in the Black Radical Tradition, Black Freedom Movement, and transnational social movements. With a PhD in Educational Policy Studies (History of Education) from the University of Illinois (2010), his work examines the intersections of education, activism, and radicalism. He has held visiting roles such as the Robert A. Corrigan Visiting Professor in Social Justice (SFSU) and the W. E. B. Du Bois Visiting Scholars Fellowship (UMass Amherst). His research highlights Black student movements, Malcolm X's influence, and Black Power strategies.

Key publications include Fighting for Our Place in the Sun (2015) and articles on the Communiversity of Chicago, Spelman College protests, and Black student-worker solidarity. Current projects explore funding structures of Black radicalism and Harold Washington's political legacy. Awards include recognition for his scholarly contributions to social justice education.

• Education: PhD in Educational Policy Studies (History of Education), University of Illinois, 2010
• Awards:
  • Robert A. Corrigan Visiting Professor in Social Justice (2019/2020)
  • W. E. B. Du Bois Visiting Scholars Fellowship (2018/2019 and 2022/2023)
• Grants/Fellowships: Multiple awards supporting research on Black radicalism and social justice.
• Advising/Grants: Advises on projects related to Black student movements and institutional reform.
• Labs/Teams: Collaborates with interdisciplinary groups on education and social justice initiatives.