Joshua Rashaad McFadden

Joshua Rashaad McFadden is an Assistant Professor in the School of Photographic Arts and Sciences at Rochester Institute of Technology's College of Art and Design. His practice examines racial identity, civil rights, and masculinity through photography, merging archival research with contemporary portraiture and social documentary.

Education
He holds a BA in Fine Art from Elizabeth City State University and an MFA from Savannah College of Art and Design.

Research Focus
McFadden's work investigates the intersection of photography with racial justice, historical memory, and identity politics. His projects like 'Come to Selfhood' and 'I Believe I’ll Run On' critically engage with Black visual culture and civil rights narratives.

Awards and Recognition

• First Place, International Photography Award (2015, 2016)
• Time Magazine's American Voices (2017)
• Communication Arts Award of Excellence (2018)
• European Cultural Centre Award (2024, group exhibition)

Teaching and Advising
He developed the course 'Race, Civil Rights & Photography,' which analyzes photographic representations of race from the 19th century to Black Lives Matter. His pedagogy emphasizes real-world applications through NYC field trips and portfolio development.