Steven D. Edgington

Steven D. Edgington is Professor of History and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Hope International University (HIU), where he has served since 1990. He previously held leadership roles as Academic Dean and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. His academic home is in the Department of History within the College of Arts and Sciences.

Education:

• B.A. in Social Science, Pacific Christian College (1977)
• M.A. in Social Science, California State University, Fullerton (1980)
• Ph.D. in History, University of California, Los Angeles (1996)
• Visiting Research Associate, Department of History, University of Zimbabwe (1989–1990)

Dr. Edgington's research centers on Colonial Zimbabwe, the economic and social history of Christian missions in Africa, 20th-century U.S. civil rights, and California political history of the 1960s–70s. His work bridges religious, social, and political history across continents. He integrates oral history and archival research, particularly in documenting California governance and African colonial dynamics.

His recent scholarly output reflects a strong focus on the interplay between religion and power in colonial contexts, especially in Southern Africa, as well as on American conservatism and civil rights. The publications and presentations span oral histories, mission studies, and regional political analysis, indicating a multidisciplinary and globally engaged scholar.

Scientific Awards:

• Faculty Excellence Award, Hope International University (2002)

Dr. Edgington has advised students through directed research, oral history projects, and study-abroad programs, particularly in Europe and Southern Africa. He has led international travel courses and mentored student researchers, though formal names of advisees are not listed. He has not been awarded external research grants in the provided text. He is active in professional organizations including the American Historical Association and the Conference on Faith and History.

He has contributed to public history through newspaper articles and extensive oral history interviews with California political figures. His leadership extends beyond research to academic administration, shaping curriculum and faculty development at HIU.