McKay Jenkins

McKay Jenkins is the Cornelius Tilghman Professor of English, Journalism, and Environmental Humanities at the University of Delaware’s College of Arts & Sciences. He holds degrees from Amherst College, Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism, and Princeton University, where he earned a PhD in English. His work bridges academic research, journalism, and environmental advocacy.

His research focuses on natural history, environmental policy, toxicology, and social justice. Notable publications include The Maryland Naturalist (2024), a state naturalist certification text, and ContamiNation (2016), which explores chemical pollution’s health impacts. Jenkins also oversees the Rock Rose Food Justice Project, an urban farm in Baltimore.

• Education:
  • PhD in English, Princeton University
  • M.A., Columbia University’s Graduate School of Journalism
  • B.A., Amherst College

He has received prestigious awards, including the University Excellence in Teaching Award and the College of Arts and Sciences’ Outstanding Scholarship and Teaching Awards. His interdisciplinary approach combines writing, environmental stewardship, and public engagement to address ecological and societal challenges.