Ann Cahill

Ann Cahill, Professor of Philosophy at Elon University since 1998, is a renowned scholar and educator whose work bridges feminist philosophy, ethics, and embodied practices. As the 2023 Distinguished University Professor, she has shaped academic leadership through roles including chair of the Department of Philosophy, director of the Lumen Prize, and current director of the Office of National and International Fellowships.

• Doctorate in Philosophy, State University of New York at Stony Brook
• Bachelor’s Degree, College of the Holy Cross

Her research focuses on gendered embodiment, sexual violence, and vocal politics, with seminal works like "Rethinking Rape" (2001) and "Overcoming Objectification: A Carnal Ethics" (2010). Her scholarship has been recognized nationally, including the Lenssen Prize (2014) and a National Endowment for the Humanities Grant (2016).

The 15 most recent publications reveal a trajectory from analyzing sexual violence and objectification to exploring affect theory, vocal performance, and embodied ethics. Key themes include the intersection of voice and justice, feminist reimaginings of bodily agency, and pedagogical frameworks for systemic inclusion.

• Elon University Distinguished Scholar Award (2011)
• Lenssen Prize (2014)
• NEH Grant (2016)
• Distinguished University Professor (2023)

As a mentor and institutional leader, Cahill has transformed student-faculty collaboration through programs like the Lumen Prize and championed LGBTQ+ and gender equity via the Sexual Assault and Gender Issues Council. Her interdisciplinary approach spans philosophy, performance training, and global citizenship education.