Katie Schmid Henson

Katie Schmid Henson serves as Assistant Professor of English and Creative Writing at Ursinus College, bringing teaching experience from institutions across Wyoming, Illinois, and Nebraska. Her pedagogical philosophy centers on cultivating vibrant classroom environments that nurture students' writing identities while challenging prescriptive notions of "real writing."

Her academic credentials include:

• B.A. in English Writing and Literature from Millikin University
• M.F.A. in Poetry Writing from the University of Wyoming
• Ph.D. in English and Women’s and Gender Studies from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Henson's research investigates poetry's role in social transformation through feminist and queer lenses. Her work interrogates female embodiment, carceral systems, and intergenerational dynamics within coming-of-age narratives. She examines how poetic forms can articulate resistance against systemic oppression while exploring intimate personal landscapes.

Recent publications reveal consistent thematic focus on bodily autonomy, queer experience, and social justice across multiple prestigious venues. Her work demonstrates evolving technical mastery while maintaining commitment to politically engaged poetry that bridges personal and collective struggles through vivid imagery and innovative structures.

Her scholarly recognition includes:

• National Endowment for the Arts fellowship in poetry

In teaching, Henson mentors students through courses like Introduction to Creative Writing and Poetry Writing, emphasizing creative risk-taking and authentic voice development. While specific grant details beyond her NEA fellowship aren't documented, her ongoing projects demonstrate sustained creative productivity supported by institutional recognition.

Currently developing her second poetry collection and a novel, Henson continues expanding her exploration of identity formation within oppressive systems while contributing to contemporary literary discourse through active publication and pedagogy.