Laura Harris

Laura Harris is a Professor of English and World Literature and Africana Studies at Pitzer College, where she has taught since 1997. Her office is located in Avery 218, and she can be contacted via email or phone. She holds a PhD from the University of California, San Diego (1997) and a BA from San Diego State University (1990).

Her research explores 20th century African American literature and culture, Feminist and Queer Theory, Harlem Renaissance Studies, African Diaspora Studies, and Performance Studies. She examines intersections of race, gender, sexuality, and power through Black feminist and queer theoretical frameworks, with a focus on diasporic identities and cultural expressions.

Her publications predominantly focus on African American literary criticism, queer theory applications, and diaspora narratives, with recent works exploring Black queer linguistics and poetry. Thematically, her scholarship consistently engages with identity formation, power structures, and resistance across literary and cultural contexts.

Awards and Honors:

• Multi-genre Workshop Member, Macondo Writers: A Homeland for Writers (July 2024)
• Agnes Moreland Jackson Award, Office of Black Student Affairs (Spring 2018)
• Faculty Contributions to 5 Colleges’ Queer Community, Lavender Graduation (Spring 2012 & 2007)
• Stonewall Book Award Nomination (2002)