HWS News
12 February 2025 • Faculty McCorkle Named Kinghorn Global Fellow for 2024-2025
Africana Studies professor recognized for excellence in teaching and leadership.
Visiting Associate Professor of Africana Studies James McCorkle '76, P'20 has been named this year’s recipient of the John R. and Florence B. Kinghorn Global Fellowship. A distinguished scholar, dedicated educator and tireless advocate for global citizenship, McCorkle’s contributions to HWS and the broader academic community embody the very spirit of the Kinghorn Fellowship.
The Kinghorn Fellowship, established in 1970 through the generosity of Dr. and Mrs. William Reckmeyer in honor of John Readie and Florence B. Kinghorn, recognizes faculty members who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to global citizenship. This distinction is awarded to those whose work advances international study programs, mentorship in independent and honors research, and partnerships with global organizations, all of which McCorkle has exemplified throughout his career.
During his appointment period, McCorkle delivered the Kinghorn Global Fellow Lecture titled "Necromancy," featuring poetry readings that speak to the dead and keep their spirits alive. McCorkle also received a stipend of $5,000 to be used in the spirit and nature of the award.
McCorkle’s longstanding commitment to fostering critical and engaged global citizens is evident in his transformative pedagogy. Whether through First-Year Seminars or his extensive courses within the Africana Studies program, he challenges students to grapple with complex historical and contemporary issues, including the Atlantic Slave Trade, structural racism, privilege and exploitation. His approach to teaching encourages deep ethical reflection, pushing students to consider their roles and responsibilities as global citizens.
Beyond the classroom, McCorkle has played a vital role in shaping the Africana Studies program, having served multiple terms as its co-director. He has also been an active supporter of the student-led Model African Union, fostering student engagement with global affairs. His leadership extends beyond campus, as demonstrated by his tenure as the Director of the African Literature Association.
A member of the HWS faculty since 2001, he teaches courses such as “Foundations of Africana Studies,” “The Black Atlantic: Cultures Across an Ocean,” “Growing Up Black,” “Black Earth: Nature and African-American Writing,” “The Revolutionary Poetics of the Black Diaspora” and “Revolutionary African-American Autobiography.” A graduate of HWS, he holds a master’s, MFA (The Iowa Writers Workshop), and doctorate from The University of Iowa.
Top: During the First-Year Seminar “Face to Face,” Visiting Associate Professor of Africana Studies James McCorkle '76, P'20 leads a class discussion.
