Jody Taylor Watkins

Jody Taylor Watkins is an Associate Teaching Professor at Purdue University, teaching SCLA 101 and 102 in the Cornerstone program. With over 25 years of experience in integrated liberal arts education, she joined Purdue in Fall 2018. Previously, she taught sociology and directed the intercultural Core program at Saint Joseph's College.

She holds a Ph.D. in Anthropology from Purdue University, with additional education from Vanderbilt University and the University of Maine. Her doctoral research analyzed Welsh identity through language, regional politics, and British state relations.

Her research explores:

• Cultural anthropology: Welsh diaspora in North America
• Identity studies: National/ethnic identity formation
• Pedagogical innovation: Contemporary applications of classical texts

Her 2021 publication in the Proceedings of the Association for Core Texts and Courses exemplifies her focus on adapting classical literature to modern crises like the COVID pandemic.

Awards include the Teaching Excellence Award from Saint Joseph's College for curriculum leadership.