Josh Neufeld

Josh Neufeld is an Assistant Instructor in the Journalism Department at Michigan State University, where he teaches courses on nonfiction comics (JRN 213) and political cartoons (JRN 313). He is a prominent comics journalist known for creating nonfiction, journalistic comics that offer new perspectives on political and social upheaval and give voice to stories that wouldn't otherwise be heard.

Neufeld's research interests center around comics journalism, graphic storytelling for social issues, and the intersection of visual arts with news reporting. His work explores how comics can be used as a medium for reporting on complex social and political issues, with particular focus on health communication through what he calls 'graphic medicine' to explain complex health topics in accessible ways. His creative approach bridges journalism, visual arts, and public health education.

His publications demonstrate a strong focus on health disparities, social justice, and innovative storytelling methods. Neufeld's work frequently addresses racial health disparities, community health interventions, and creative approaches to health education. He has produced numerous comics journalism pieces for major publications including The Boston Globe, The Journalist's Resource, and Chicago Sun-Times, often using visual narrative to make complex issues more understandable and emotionally resonant.

• Graphic Medicine Award (2023)
• Knight-Wallace Fellowship in Journalism at the University of Michigan (2012)
• Xeric Foundation grant for his first book (2004)
• Atlantic Center for the Arts Master Artist (2014)

As a cultural ambassador through the U.S. Department of State's Speaker and Specialist program, Neufeld has conducted workshops internationally in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. His teaching extends beyond MSU to institutions including the School of Visual Arts and Queens College, where he shares his expertise in comics journalism and visual storytelling techniques.