Melanie Conroy-Goldman

Dr. Melanie Conroy-Goldman is a Professor of English and Creative Writing at Hobart and William Smith Colleges, where she has served on the faculty since 2002. She earned her M.F.A. from the University of Oregon and her B.A. from Columbia University, summa cum laude. She has held leadership roles including Chair of the English Department (2009–2011) and Director of the Trias Residency for Writers.

• Education: M.F.A., University of Oregon; B.A., Columbia University (summa cum laude)

Her research and creative interests focus on literary fiction, the fiction/non-fiction divide, and contemporary narrative forms. She has taught courses such as Literary Science Fiction and Fantasy, Theory of Fiction, and Advanced Fiction Workshop, contributing significantly to curriculum development within the English Department. Her recent novel The Likely World (2020) and numerous short stories published in prestigious journals like McSweeney’s, The Southern Review, and Seneca Review reflect a sustained engagement with psychological depth, narrative innovation, and the boundaries of genre. The publications demonstrate consistent thematic exploration of identity, memory, and the intricacies of human relationships through both realist and experimental modes.

She has received recognition through publication in top-tier literary venues and has contributed to anthologies. Her service includes mentoring junior faculty, organizing visiting writer programs, and participating in community initiatives such as the Cornell Prison Education Project and Ithaca City of Asylum.

• Professional Service:
  • Director, Trias Residency for Writers
  • Chair, English Department (2009–2011)
  • Board Member, Ithaca City of Asylum (2005–2006)
  • Teacher, Cornell Prison Education Project (2012, 2013)

Dr. Conroy-Goldman has advised and influenced numerous students through her teaching and workshops, though specific advisees are not listed. She has not disclosed external grant funding in the provided text. She is associated with the creative writing community through her residency program and collaborations with visiting authors such as Tom Piazza, Mary Gaitskill, and Jeff VanderMeer.