Find Academic Supervisors

Melanie Maimon is an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Bryant University, where she leads the Belonging, Identity, and Stigma (BIAS) Lab. She holds a B.S. in Psychology and Sociology from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, and M.S. and Ph.D. in Social Psychology from Rutgers University-New Brunswick. Her research focuses on identity, stigma, discrimination, and belonging, particularly for stigmatized and minoritized groups in societal and educational contexts. Ph.D., Social Psychology, Rutgers University M.S., Social Psychology, Rutgers University B.S., Psychology and Sociology, University of Massachusetts-Amherst Maimon's work investigates how identity cues foster inclusion and the consequences of stigmatization. Her teaching interests include Social Psychology, Research Methods, and Introduction to Psychology. She has published extensively on topics like identity safety cues in classrooms, social judgment reluctance, therapist identity effects, and bisexual identity denial. Scientific Awards: Merit Award, 2025 Undergraduate Research Grant (faculty supervisor), 2024 Teacher Scholar Conference Award, 2024

• Social Psychology
• Identity
• Stigma
• +3 more

Chiara De Santi is an Associate Professor of Modern Languages at Farmingdale State College (FSC), teaching Italian language, culture, cinema, and international cinema in various modalities. She previously served as Italian Language Coordinator and Advisor of the Minor in Italian Studies at FSC and taught at SUNY Fredonia in World Languages and Cultures, Visual Arts and New Media, Communication, and English departments. Education: PhD in Italian & Minor in History, University of Wisconsin-Madison (2011) PhD in History and Civilization, European University Institute (2009) MRes in History and Civilization, European University Institute (2004) Laurea (MA) in Russian and French, University of Florence (2001) Her research focuses on cinema, history, migrations, travel literature, and Italian language pedagogy. Recent work examines Soviet intellectuals in the 1950s, inclusive language in Italian education, and Italian emigration to Chile and the Southern Cone. She has led COIL initiatives at FSC and is part of the SUNY COIL Advisory Council (2024-2026). Collaborations span Chile, Italy, Japan, Mexico, South Africa, and Venezuela. Current projects explore Italian emigration in film and historical representations in cinema. Scientific Awards & Certifications: Lumen Circles Fellowship in Belonging & Inclusive Teaching FRN Leadership Initiative SIELE Certificate in Spanish (B2/C1) CITI Program Certificate in Advanced Social/Behavioral Research

• Cinema
• History
• Migrations
• +2 more

Adrian Whitacre is an Assistant Professor of Anglophone Literature at Eureka College's Department of Humanities. They hold a PhD in English Literature (2019) and MA (2016) from Indiana University, along with a BA in English (2012) from Anderson University. Education PhD, English Literature - Indiana University MA, English Literature - Indiana University BA, English - Anderson University Whitacre's research explores intersections between medieval literature and contemporary identity studies, focusing on werewolves, bodily transformation, queer theory, and posthumanism. Their work extends to analyzing modern speculative fiction including Star Trek narratives and medievalism in contemporary culture. Key publication themes include medieval romance adaptation, franchise identity negotiation, and allegorical body interpretations. Their work spans both literary analysis and cultural studies. Teaching interests emphasize exploratory learning, covering composition, critical theory, mythology, medieval literature, and unconventional topics like 'Cults and Conspiracy Theories.' They maintain active academic engagement through conference presentations at institutions like the University of Leeds and University of Toronto, while contributing to edited volumes in their field.

• Medieval Literature
• Posthumanism
• Queer Studies
• +5 more

Chad Heap is Associate Professor of American Studies at The George Washington University, where he teaches courses on U.S. sexuality, gender, and urban culture. He is affiliated with the Department of American Studies in the College of Arts and Sciences and contributes to interdisciplinary programs in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (WSGG). Education: PhD, University of Chicago, 2000 His research centers on the historical relationship between sexuality and the city, particularly in late 19th and early 20th century America. He explores how urban environments shaped sexual identities and communities, with a focus on racial and sexual boundary-crossing in nightlife cultures. His work bridges cultural history, urban studies, and queer theory. His publications reveal a sustained interest in the development of sexual knowledge in urban contexts, especially in Chicago. The themes across his work include the institutionalization of sexual binaries, the role of urban space in queer community formation, and the visual representation of interracial and queer social networks. Scientific Awards: Finalist, Randy Shilts Award for Gay Nonfiction (2010) Mellon Postdoctoral Research Fellowship, Newberry Library Sexuality Research Dissertation Fellowship, Social Science Research Council James C. Hormel Dissertation Fellowship, University of Chicago Heap has chaired several graduate dissertations on topics including country music’s urbanization, African American consumer culture in Washington, DC, and suburban anxieties in the late 20th century. He has been a visiting scholar at New York University’s Center for the Study of Gender and Sexuality. His current research includes two book projects: one on a queer portrait gallery in 1920s Manhattan, and another on the history of sexological research in Chicago. He is actively engaged in public scholarship, having been featured on BBC Radio 4’s Thinking Allowed to discuss his book Slumming .

• Sexuality
• Gender
• Urban History
• +6 more

Courtney Bailey is an Associate Professor in the Department of Communication, Media, & Performance at Allegheny College, where she teaches courses in rhetorical theory, media studies, and cultural criticism. She is based in the Vukovich Center for Communication and Arts, Room 304, and can be reached at cbailey@allegheny.edu or (814) 332-2301. Education: B.S.C. in Interpersonal Communication, Ohio University-Athens M.S. and Ph.D. in Communication & Culture, Indiana University-Bloomington Her research lies at the intersection of rhetorical studies, feminist/queer theory, and media analysis, with a strong emphasis on visual imagery and bodily representation in U.S. popular culture. She critically examines how identity categories such as sexuality, race, disability, and gender are constructed and negotiated in media texts and public discourse. Her recent scholarly work explores the portrayal of non-normative relationships in television, including analyses of Super Size Me , celebrity homophobia scandals, and the framing of heterosexual polygamy in series like Big Love and Sister Wives . These publications reflect a consistent interest in how popular media both challenge and reinforce dominant cultural ideologies. Scientific Awards: No awards listed in the provided text. Advising and Grants: No formal advisees or grant funding mentioned in the available information. Labs and Research Teams: There is no mention of a specific lab or research team. Her work appears to be individually driven within the framework of communication and cultural studies at Allegheny College.

• Rhetorical Studies
• Media Studies
• Feminist Theory
• +7 more

Edgar Gomez is a queer NicaRican writer born and raised in Florida, currently serving as Affiliate Faculty in the MFA in Creative Writing Program at Antioch University Los Angeles. His work spans memoir, personal essays, and cultural criticism, exploring themes of Latinx identity, queer experience, and class struggle. His research interests focus on Creative Writing , particularly memoir and nonfiction forms, Latinx Studies examining NicaRican identity within the American context, and Queer Studies through the lens of working-class LGBTQ+ experiences. His writing often intersects these fields to critique the American Dream narrative while celebrating community resilience. Gomez's publications reveal a consistent focus on personal narrative as social commentary, with particular attention to Florida's cultural landscape, queer Latinx identity formation, and the intersections of poverty and pride. His work has been featured in prestigious outlets including The LA Times, Poets & Writers, and The New York Times. Scientific Awards: American Book Award (2023) Lambda Literary Award for Gay Memoir (2023) Stonewall Israel-Fishman Nonfiction Book Honor Award (2023) New York Foundation for the Arts Fellowship National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship Black Mountain Institute Fellowship Gomez has mentored emerging writers through institutions including Hugo House, Catapult, Tin House, and the Lambda Literary Writer's Retreat. His teaching philosophy emphasizes authentic voice and craft while honoring students' unique cultural backgrounds and life experiences. He has received fellowships supporting his creative work and has been invited to speak at institutions including New York University, Stanford University, and the University of California. Based between New York and Puerto Rico, Gomez maintains an active presence in literary communities through readings, workshops, and editorial consultation.

• Creative Writing
• Memoir Writing
• Nonfiction
• +3 more

Jolene Hubbs is Professor of American Studies at the University of Alabama, specializing in 20th-century U.S. literature, Southern fiction, and intersections of race, gender, and class in literary modernity. Her work bridges media studies, ethnic studies, and social activism frameworks. B.A., Scripps College M.A. and Ph.D., Stanford University Research Focus: Hubbs examines literary modernism through Southern cultural contexts. Her recent scholarship explores eugenics narratives, food insecurity in contemporary Southern women's writing, and racialized media representations from the Gilded Age to the present. She contributes to transnational American studies and queer theory via analyses of authors like Samuel R. Delany and Flannery O’Connor. Publication Trends: Over the past two decades, her work has prioritized critical race theory, feminist approaches, and interdisciplinary methodologies. Key themes include normativity challenges, racial segregation's literary legacies, and the evolution of Southern identity in global contexts.

• Twentieth-century U.S. literature and culture
• Southern fiction
• Literary representations of race and social class
• +8 more

Dr. Jorge Ramos serves as the Executive Director of Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve ('Ootchamin 'Ooyakma) and a Lecturer in the Department of Biology at Stanford University. He oversees research, education, and conservation activities at the preserve, while also contributing to university committees focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. His leadership extends to multiple national organizations dedicated to advancing ecological science and promoting diversity in STEM fields. Dr. Ramos earned his educational credentials from prestigious institutions: Ph.D. from Arizona State University (2017) M.S. from University of Washington (2011) B.S. from University of Texas at El Paso (2006) His research interests span ecology, environmental education, and conservation science, with particular focus on biodiversity preservation and climate change solutions. Dr. Ramos has dedicated over 20 years to supporting ecological educational activities for historically marginalized communities, earning him the Eugene P. Odum Award for Excellence in Ecology Education in 2023. His work integrates scientific research with social justice, emphasizing inclusive practices in environmental science. Dr. Ramos's publications reveal a strong commitment to both theoretical ecology and practical applications for environmental challenges. His recent work focuses on just seascape restoration, authentic science connections through mentorship, and nature-based climate solutions. Earlier publications examine nutrient cycling in aquatic ecosystems and conservation investment strategies, demonstrating his interdisciplinary approach that bridges ecological theory with real-world conservation practice. Dr. Ramos has received numerous scientific awards recognizing his contributions to ecology and diversity in science: Academic Fellow of the California Academy of Sciences (2024) Invited Member of the Stanford Leadership Summit (2024) Eugene P. Odum Award for Excellence in Ecology Education (2023) Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access in a Learning Environment Honor Roll (2023) Human Diversity Award to Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve (2021) As an advisor and mentor, Dr. Ramos has significantly impacted diversity in ecological sciences. He serves as Chapter Advisor for both the ESA SEEDS Chapter and SACNAS Chapter at Stanford, and has mentored through multiple programs including SEEDS, Mentoring365, and Ecology+. His grant history includes prestigious awards such as the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship and Sustainability Science for Sustainable Schools Fellowship, reflecting his commitment to advancing ecological education and conservation science. Dr. Ramos leads initiatives through Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve and collaborates with numerous organizations including Save the Redwoods League, Latino Outdoors, and the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS). His work integrates field station research with community engagement, creating pathways for underrepresented groups in environmental science while advancing conservation practices.

• Ecology
• Environmental Education
• Conservation Science
• +5 more

Jon Heggestad is a Visiting Assistant Professor of Film, Media, and Digital Studies at Davidson College, where he explores intersections between digital studies and queer theory. His scholarly work spans literature, film, social media, and fan fiction, with a focus on queer cultural inheritance and representation. He holds a Ph.D. from Stony Brook University, an M.A. from King's College London, and a B.A. from Drake University. His research examines how digital mediums facilitate queer identity formation and community building. Key projects include analyses of Young Adult literature, YouTube coming-out narratives, and representations in video games/fan fiction. He engages both academic and public audiences through platforms like In Media Res and Public Books. Jon actively contributes to academic communities as a member of the Modern Language Association and Popular Culture Association. Since 2021, he has co-chaired the "Science & Technology" panel at the Northeast Popular Culture Association.

• Digital Humanities
• Queer Studies
• Media Studies
• +4 more

Dr. Timothy S. Lyle is an Associate Professor in the Department of English at Iona College, where he teaches courses in African American, American, and African diasporan literatures and cultures. He is also Co-Chair of the Committee on Diversity and Faculty Advisor for Gael Pride, reflecting his deep commitment to inclusive academic communities. Ph.D., Howard University BA/MA, Georgia State University His research and teaching are grounded in interdisciplinary approaches, particularly through the lenses of queer theory, race studies, disability studies, and digital humanities. He focuses on contemporary African American literature with an emphasis on the intersections of race, gender, sexuality, and disability. His work critically engages with cultural narratives surrounding HIV/AIDS, transgender women of color, and Black queer representation in media and theater. The most recent publications highlight a sustained engagement with narratives of pleasure, dignity, and resistance in LGBTQ+ and African diasporan communities. His work frequently centers on figures such as Janet Mock and Tyler Perry, analyzing how their narratives shape or challenge dominant ideologies around gender, sexuality, and race. The thematic consistency across articles includes identity formation, narrative ethics, and the politics of representation in literary and performative spaces. Dr. Lyle has not been mentioned as receiving any formal scientific awards in the provided text. He advises student organizations such as Gael Pride and plays a leadership role in institutional diversity efforts. While no formal grant funding is mentioned, his ongoing archival research at the Schomburg Center for Black Cultural Research suggests active scholarly development and potential future funded projects. He has supervised graduate seminars and interdisciplinary upper-division courses but no named advisees are listed. His current scholarly work involves mining the “In the Life Archives” at the Schomburg Center, which focuses on LGBTQ individuals in Black communities, supporting his forthcoming book projects on HIV/AIDS narratives and the literary histories of transgender women of color.

• African American Literature
• African Diasporan Cultures
• Queer Theory
• +9 more

Hayley O’Malley is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Art History at Rice University, specializing in African American film and literature with a focus on Black women’s cultural production since the 1960s. Her interdisciplinary work bridges feminist thought, political activism, and public humanities through curatorial projects and academic research. Education : Ph.D. in English Language and Literature (University of Michigan) M.A. in English (University of Michigan) M.St. in Film Aesthetics (University of Oxford) M.A. in English (Middlebury College) B.A. in English and Political Science (Haverford College) Research Interests : Her current book project Dreams of a Black Cinema examines Black women's contributions to 20th-century film culture. She co-edits volumes on Kathleen Collins' unpublished works and co-leads a special issue on Black interdisciplinary arts. Her work emphasizes archival recovery and public engagement, including curating the 2023 Sojourner Truth Festival and the Out of the Archive film series. Recent Work Trends : Recent publications analyze Black feminist film criticism, speculative histories of Black cultural festivals, and intersections between literature/visual arts. Her writing spans academic journals ( Feminist Media Histories , James Baldwin Review ) and public platforms like UCLA Film Archive. Awards & Grants : 2024-25 Schomburg Center residency Huntington Library Fellowship National Endowment for the Humanities-supported grant Collaborative Work : Co-editing Kathleen Collins' unpublished plays/screenplays Co-curating film festivals Leading Sawyer Seminar projects Labs/Initiatives : Engages in public humanities through film series curation and academic partnerships with institutions like Emory University's Stuart A. Rose Library.

• Film history and historiography
• African American film
• African American literature
• +3 more

Heather Moore Roberson is Associate Professor of Community & Justice Studies and Black Studies at Allegheny College, where she also serves as Dean of Student and Community Development. She is a tenured faculty member and the first Black woman in the college's history to achieve tenure. Educational Background: Bachelor’s in Educational Studies, Trinity College Bachelor’s in American Studies, Trinity College M.A. in American Studies, Purdue University Ph.D. in American Studies, Purdue University (2015) Dr. Roberson's research centers on race, equity, and justice in higher education, with a focus on Black youth masculinity, pop culture, and culturally relevant pedagogy. Her interdisciplinary work bridges Black Studies, education, and community development. She has published extensively on diversity, equity, and inclusion, contributing to national dialogues through journals like Academic Leader and presentations at conferences hosted by the Council of Independent Colleges and Leadership in Higher Education. Her recent publications reflect a strong trend in interdisciplinary scholarship, particularly in Black education, social justice, and institutional equity. The 2024 edited volume Thinking about Black Education , which won the Society of Professors of Education Outstanding Book Award, exemplifies her leadership in advancing critical discourse in education. Scientific Awards and Honors: Thoburn Award for Teaching Excellence Society of Professors of Education Outstanding Book Award (2024) Top 100 Black Trailblazers in Pennsylvania, City & State Magazine (2024) Dr. Roberson has led major institutional initiatives in faculty diversity and inclusion, having served as Director of Faculty Diversity and Inclusion (2021–2022). She continues to mentor students and advise on equity-focused programs. Her leadership is supported by internal and external grants focused on inclusive excellence, though specific grant names are not listed. She remains an active teacher, offering courses on race, identity, and education in the United States. She is actively involved in shaping institutional culture through her dual roles in academic leadership and community development, working closely with student affairs, faculty, and external partners to foster a more equitable campus environment.

• Race, Equity, and Justice in Higher Education
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
• Black Studies
• +6 more

Kerry A. Kautzman is a Professor of Spanish at Alfred University's College of Liberal Arts & Sciences, specializing in Peninsular Spanish Literature and Culture, Medieval/Early Modern Spanish Studies, Spanish Women Writers, and Spanish Children's Literature. Their research explores intersections of Jewish identity, queer theory, and collective memory in Hispanic narratives, with a focus on authors like José Emilio Pacheco and Teresa de Cartagena. PhD in Spanish, University of Cincinnati, 2003 MA in Spanish, University of Cincinnati, 1995 BA in International Studies, Gannon University, 1993 Kautzman's work spans literary criticism, feminist theory, and educational innovation, including textbook contributions and curriculum development. They have presented extensively at international conferences on topics ranging from gender identity in Spanish literature to urban narratives and manuscript analysis. Alfred University International Fellowship for Faculty Development Grant (2016, 2005) Abigail Allen Award (2014) Joseph Kruson Trust Fund Award for Excellence in Teaching (2004) Service-Learning Award (2003) NEH Research Grant (2003) Kautzman holds leadership roles in academic assessment and program development, serving as Chair of the Division of Modern Languages (2011–2017) and Director of Women’s Studies Program (2008–2012). Their recent publications analyze spatial politics in contemporary Spanish fiction, queer ideology in Hispanic narratives, and the role of Jewish identity in 20th-century literature.

• Peninsular Spanish Literature and Culture
• Medieval/Early Modern Spanish Studies
• Spanish Women Writers
• +5 more

Chris Belcher is an Assistant Professor at the University of Southern California, jointly appointed in the Writing Program and Department of Gender & Sexuality Studies. She is also an Affiliate Faculty member in Antioch University's MFA in Creative Writing Program. MA in English from The Ohio State University PhD in Literature from University of Southern California Belcher specializes in creative nonfiction , exploring intersections of LGBTQ identities and gender studies through memoir and personal narrative. Her research spans American literature , rural life representation , and social justice . Her publications reflect these themes: Pretty Baby (2022) examines queer identity and labor, while We Too (2021) amplifies marginalized voices in sex work discourse. These works align with her focus on trauma resilience and storytelling in marginalized communities. Lambda Literary Award Finalist (Memoir/Biography) 2023 As an educator, Belcher mentors PhD candidates in teaching and writing, and offers book coaching and ghostwriting services through her Archive of the Heart project. She actively fosters rescue dogs in Los Angeles.

• Creative Nonfiction
• LGBTQ Studies
• Gender Studies
• +3 more

Elana Redfield serves as the Arnold D. Kassoy Scholar of Law and Federal Policy Director at the Williams Institute, University of California, Los Angeles School of Law. In this capacity, she coordinates comprehensive legal research and policy analysis on federal and state regulations impacting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, and intersex (LGBTQI) communities, with particular focus on transgender and nonbinary populations. Her educational foundation includes a Juris Doctor from CUNY School of Law (2008) and a bachelor's degree from New York University (2003). Prior professional experience encompasses leadership roles at the New York City Department of Social Services, where she directed safety net service improvements for LGBTQI communities, and the Sylvia Rivera Law Project, providing direct legal representation for low-income transgender people of color. Redfield's research expertise centers on transgender rights, LGBTQ+ public policy, and discrimination law, with significant contributions in immigration law, social services systems, and the intersection of race and gender identity. Her work consistently addresses real-world policy impacts through community-centered methodologies, examining critical issues including gender-affirming care access, sports participation bans, economic security for LGBTQ+ youth, and immigration challenges. Analysis of her extensive publication record reveals dominant trends in evaluating anti-transgender legislation impacts, documenting transgender immigrant experiences, and addressing socioeconomic disparities through policy interventions. Her research combines rigorous legal analysis with community-based survey data to produce actionable recommendations for policymakers and service providers. Professional contributions extend beyond publications to direct policy engagement, including amicus briefs for landmark cases like United States v. Skrmetti and public comments submitted to federal agencies on regulatory matters affecting LGBTQI populations. Her work demonstrates consistent collaboration with community organizations to translate research into tangible policy changes.

• Transgender Rights
• LGBTQ+ Policy
• Public Policy
• +3 more