معرفی
Julie Sims Steward serves as Professor of English and Director of Creative Writing at Samford University's Howard College of Arts and Sciences, where she has taught since 1996. Her expertise spans modern poetry, literary theory, and creative writing pedagogy with specialized focus on contemplative practices in poetics.
Her academic credentials include a BA from Austin College and MA/PhD degrees from Rice University, establishing a foundation for interdisciplinary scholarship bridging literary analysis and creative practice.
Dr. Steward's research integrates mythology, literary history, and contemplative methodologies to explore poetic consciousness and pedagogical innovation. Her work demonstrates consistent engagement with 20th-century poetic traditions while pioneering applications of mindfulness in literary education.
Her distinguished contributions have earned significant recognition:
- 1999 Kirby Award for Best Article Published in South Central Review
- 2006 William J. Calvert Award for Literary Scholarship
- 2016 James Woodall Award for Outstanding Pedagogical Essay
- 2013 Buchanan Award for Excellence in Teaching
- 2010 Howard College Arts & Sciences Dean's Award for Teaching
As an active mentor, she has guided undergraduate researchers through multiple SURP grants (2007-2009) collaborating with students Andrew Wells, Victoria Stone, and Anna Bedsole on bibliographic projects. Her international work includes a 2002 Problem-Based Learning Transatlantic Cooperation grant with University of Maastricht faculty, culminating in a Hawaii International Conference presentation. She maintains ongoing involvement in Samford's Undergraduate Research Program while balancing creative output as a published poet and playwright.
Through her leadership of the Creative Writing program and integration of performance arts (including local theater productions), Dr. Steward cultivates a dynamic academic ecosystem connecting classroom instruction, scholarly research, and community artistic engagement.
