Kathryn McClain

Kathryn McClain is an Assistant Professor of American Literature in the Department of Languages, Literature, and Mass Communication at Colorado Mesa University, part of the College of Arts and Humanities. She teaches courses in American literature, composition, and interdisciplinary Maverick Milestone courses that integrate literature with sociology and gender studies, fostering student engagement with contemporary societal narratives through creative and research-based projects.

Education:

• PhD in American Literature, University of Kentucky
• Graduate Certificate in Gender and Women's Studies, University of Kentucky
• Graduate Certificate in College Teaching and Learning, University of Kentucky
• MA in English, Truman State University
• BFA in Creative Writing, Truman State University

Her research focuses on 19th–20th century American literature, adaptation studies, masculinities, and contemporary popular culture. She explores how early American protest literature is reinterpreted today and investigates themes like authorized grief and adapted violence in modern adaptations. Her work bridges literary scholarship with pedagogical innovation.

Her recent publications and projects center on adaptation in literature and teaching, reflecting a strong engagement with both scholarly and educational dimensions of literary studies. Themes across her work include social justice, narrative transformation, and interdisciplinary teaching methods.

Scientific Awards:

• No awards listed in the provided text.

McClain is actively involved in academic service as a founding editor of Adaptation Today, where she develops peer-reviewed pedagogical resources such as syllabi, lesson plans, and blog content for educators teaching adaptation. She advises on curriculum development and promotes innovative teaching practices in college literature classrooms.

Labs and Research Groups:

She co-founded and contributes to Adaptation Today, a digital platform dedicated to supporting educators in teaching literary adaptation. The site hosts teaching materials and a blog, functioning as a collaborative academic community for pedagogical exchange.