About the African American Studies Program
Learn about our faculty and program offerings.
African American Studies Program
What We Do
The African American Studies Program at the University of Mississippi explores the history, culture, and contributions of African Americans through interdisciplinary research and teaching, with a focus on Mississippi and the South.
We offer a dynamic curriculum that examines African American experiences across history, literature, art, music, and public policy. Our program fosters cultural and intellectual engagement on campus while preparing students for careers that intersect with African American studies.
Who We Are
The University of Mississippi is categorized as an R1 research institution, which means that our faculty are at the top of their fields and actively conducting groundbreaking research. It also means students work and study alongside some of the best.
Our faculty members include award-winning educators and researchers with years of experience.
What We Offer
UG
Excavate hidden stories, celebrate great achievements, and educate to transform communities.
- Oxford
Welcome from the Director
The African American Studies Program at the University of Mississippi is committed to examining the history, culture, and contributions of African Americans and Africans in the U.S. and the diaspora through dynamic research and teaching. Our interdisciplinary curriculum spans history, literature, art, music, political science, sociology, and more, with a particular focus on the African American experience in Mississippi and the South. As the only institution in the state offering a B.A. in African American Studies, along with a minor that fosters academic excellence and social responsibility, we equip students with the knowledge and skills for impactful careers in law, education, government, media, business, and beyond. We invite you to explore our courses and become part of a vibrant intellectual community dedicated to understanding and advancing African American experiences.
Cornelius Lyn Bynum
Director of African American Studies and Associate Professor of History
Program Leadership & Support
Cornelius Bynum
- Director of African American Studies and Associate Professor of History
Tracion Flood
- Program Manager
African American Studies Faculty
Patrick Alexander
- Associate Professor of English and African American Studies
Cornelius Bynum
- Director of African American Studies and Associate Professor of History
Kesicia Dickinson
- Assistant Professor of Political Science and African American Studies
Owen Hyman
- Instructional Associate Professor of African American Studies
Teri Incampo
- Assistant Professor of Theatre Studies and African American Studies
Marvin King
- Associate Professor of Political Science & African American Studies
Vanessa Oliphant
- Assistant Professor of Psychology and African American Studies
Raja Malikah Rahim
- Assistant Professor of History and African American Studies
Charles Ross
- Professor of History and African American Studies
Ethel Scurlock
- Dean of the Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College and Associate Professor of English and African American Studies
Mallory Sharp Aur
- Visiting Assistant Professor of Art History
Affiliated Faculty
Adetayo Alabi
- Professor of English
Robert Colby
- Assistant Professor of History
George Dor
- Professor of Music
Adam Gussow
- Professor of English and Southern Studies
Zachary Guthrie
- Associate Professor of History