Tara Hollies

Tara Hollies is a Visiting Assistant Professor of African History in the History Department at Macalester College. Her research centers on indigenous African knowledge systems and gender dynamics in pre-colonial to early colonial Igboland, Nigeria.

Education

• PhD in African History, Michigan State University (2020, with distinction)

Research Focus

Dr. Hollies prioritizes indigenous African perspectives and periodization in historical analysis. Her work examines the interplay of law and religion within Igbo society, tracking transformations in gender roles from societal origins through British missionary and colonial incursions in early 20th century Nigeria. This research bridges gender studies, legal anthropology, and decolonial historiography.

Scientific Recognition

• Excellence in Teaching award, Michigan State University (2020)
• Fulbright-IIE fellowship
• Andrew W. Mellon Foundation grant

Academic Leadership

Dr. Hollies has mentored students extensively inside and outside the classroom since her graduate studies. She actively contributes to professional organizations including the African Studies Association (ASA) since 2014, serving on the Women’s Caucus steering committee (2015-2017) and as treasurer (2018-2020), and the Coordinating Council for Women in History since 2021.