Jessica Barnes-Pietruszynski

Jessica Barnes-Pietruszynski is a Professor of English at West Virginia State University (WVSU), specializing in 19th Century British Literature and Women’s Studies. She holds a PhD from Illinois State University and is actively involved in academic governance and curriculum development. Her roles include peer reviewer for Nineteenth Century Gender Studies, English Department Honors Advisor, and member of the West Virginia Developmental Task Force.

Education:

• PhD in English Studies, Illinois State University (specialization: 19th Century British Literature)
• Graduate Certificate in Women’s Studies

Research Interests: Explores intersections of gender, literature, and education. Recent work focuses on curriculum development in historically Black colleges and undergraduate writing programs. Active in advancing developmental education reforms at the state level.

Publications: Contributed a chapter to Undergraduate Writing Majors: Eighteen Programs (2014), analyzing the development of writing programs at HBCUs. Current work emphasizes pedagogical strategies in literature and gender studies.

Awards: 2013 WVSU Outstanding Teacher of the Year, recognizing excellence in teaching and mentorship.

Advising & Service: Leads the English Department Honors Program and collaborates on statewide developmental education initiatives. Office hours are extensive, reflecting strong commitment to student engagement.