Heather FinchView profile
Assistant Professor
Heather Finch is an Assistant Professor of English in the College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences at Belmont University. She holds a Ph.D. from Auburn University and specializes in Early American and African American literature, with a focused interest in the fragmented narratives of pre-nineteenth-century enslaved women. Her work integrates literary scholarship with diversity and inclusion initiatives in higher education. Her educational background includes a B.A. from Tuskegee University, M.A. and Ph.D. from Auburn University, and professional experience linked to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. These institutions have shaped her interdisciplinary approach to teaching and mentorship. Dr. Finch's research centers on marginalized voices in early American literature, particularly the literary expressions and lived experiences of enslaved women before the nineteenth century. She explores how trauma, memory, and identity are constructed through fragmented narratives. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes critical thinking, reading, and writing as tools for personal and academic empowerment. She also contributes to diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in higher education, blending her scholarly work with institutional service. While no recent publications are listed in the provided text, her research trajectory suggests ongoing contributions to the fields of American literary studies, African American women's writing, and narrative theory. Her interdisciplinary lens likely connects literature with history, gender studies, and cultural studies. Belmont University – Assistant Professor of English Tuskegee University – B.A. Auburn University – M.A., Ph.D. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign – Professional experience Dr. Finch is actively involved in mentoring students and professionals from diverse backgrounds. She has over sixteen years of experience as an instructor, consultant, program coordinator, and mentor. Her professional roles extend beyond the classroom, including consultancy in writing and communication, program administration, and publicity work. There is no mention of research grants in the provided text. She maintains a professional presence through her website and continues to contribute to academic and institutional communities through teaching, mentorship, and diversity initiatives. No specific labs or research teams are mentioned.
