Sharon Pajka

Sharon Pajka is a Professor in the Department of English at Gallaudet University, specializing in literary studies, Deaf culture, and public history. She holds a Ph.D. in English Education from the University of Virginia and has authored multiple books, including Women Writers Buried in Virginia and The Souls Close to Edgar Allan Poe, which won the 2024 Saturday Visiter Award. Her research explores Deaf representation in literature and historical narratives tied to cemeteries and graveyards.

• Education:
• Ph.D. in English Education, University of Virginia
• M.A. in Secondary English Education, Gallaudet University
• Graduate Certificate in Public History, University of Richmond
• B.A. in English and Religious Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University

Her work bridges academia and community, focusing on cemetery preservation, literary history, and creative writing workshops. She leads cemetery tours and writing events, such as Meandering Among the Markers, and chairs the Virginia Chapter of the Association for Gravestone Studies.

Recent articles delve into themes like grief, literary heritage, and the intersection of nature and history. Awards include recognition for her Poe-related work, highlighting her contributions to adapting literary history into accessible narratives.