Vanessa E. Thompson

Vanessa E. Thompson is an Assistant Professor and Distinguished Professor in Black Studies and Social Justice at Queen's University. She serves as Chair of Partnerships and Organizing in the Black Studies Program and holds roles in academic governance, including Chair of QUFA's Political Action and Communications Committee. Her interdisciplinary research focuses on state violence, racism, capitalism, and abolitionist movements, with a global perspective emphasizing anti-colonial and black feminist methodologies. She collaborates with international black, anti-racist, and abolitionist movements to explore alternatives to structural oppression.

Thompson teaches courses such as Black Studies and the Politics of Liberation and Abolition Feminism. Her work bridges activism and scholarship, prioritizing collaborations with marginalized communities. She actively supports first-generation and multi-marginalized students in her mentorship.

Her service extends to editorial roles, including membership in the collective kitchen politics, and committee memberships in undergraduate and political outreach initiatives.