Michele Cheung

Michele Cheung is an adjunct professor in the Department of English at the University of Southern Maine (USM), where she has taught writing and literature courses for over two decades. She is also affiliated with the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. In addition to her role at USM, she has taught at the University of New England, Southern Maine Community College, and the Maine College of Art. Cheung has directed the Southworth Planetarium’s prose and poetry reading programs since 2014, offering performance venues for USM and community writers. These include the popular Night of Eire event and local writing workshops.

• Education:
  • MA in Celtic Languages and Literature from Harvard University (1980)
  • BA in Medieval Studies from SUNY Empire State College at Cornell University (1978)

Her research and professional interests span Creative Writing, Literature, Journalism, and Activism, with a focus on expanding human liberation through writing. She has maintained a dual commitment to academic instruction and community engagement, integrating her journalism background with pedagogical practice.

Since 2014, Cheung has served as president of the Part-Time Faculty Association, the union representing adjunct faculty across the University of Maine System. This role underscores her advocacy for part-time academic staff and institutional accountability.

Her professional activities include leading writing workshops in local communities and curating literary events. While no specific grants or labs are listed, her work with the Southworth Planetarium and community programs reflects her dedication to fostering literary expression beyond traditional academic settings.