On Thursday, Sept. 7, the Center for Black Studies welcomed Simone Drake back to campus as the Black Studies Scholar-In-Residence for 2023-2024.
The Black Studies program hosted a reception at Monomoy Place where colleagues and friends celebrated Professor Drake and saluted her prestigious career. Classical Civilization and English faculty who taught Simone in her dual majors congratulated her and shared memories of her student years. Other colleagues remembered Simone when she was a Consortium for Faculty Diversity (formerly CSMP) dissertation fellow (2004-2005) and a visiting assistant professor (2007-2008). During those periods, she was an active member of the Black Caucus, taught courses in Black Studies and English, and advised student research.
Since leaving Denison, Simone has built a career at Ohio State University, where she currently is the Hazel C. Youngberg Trustees Distinguished Professor and Professor of English. She also holds a courtesy appointment and teaches courses for Moritz College of Law at Ohio State. Her ties to Denison have been strong over the years via visits to speak to classes, participation in Denison events, and as a member of the Black Alumni Association.
During her Residency year, Professor Drake will engage in scholarship, teaching, and service, while serving as a resource to the Black Studies Program. We are happy to have her back.
