The Department of Africana Studies at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville fosters a comprehensive understanding of the diverse people of African descent through interdisciplinary scholarship, creative expression, and community-based research. Integrating ideas and action, our faculty specialize in innovative approaches to Literature, U.S. History, Health, Gender, Social Movements, Creative Writing, and Religion.
We are committed to producing and communicating knowledge through rigorous research, innovative teaching, and active community engagement. We empower our students to become critical thinkers, skilled communicators, and compassionate leaders.
We seek to build strong connections with local, national, and international partners to enhance our research and educational initiatives. By integrating scholarly inquiry with practical application, we aim to make a meaningful impact on both academia and society.


Africana Studies Brings Girls Poetry, Music, Food
During February, elementary school girls across three counties are exploring poems, jazz, and Southern foods with support from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
Professor Natalie Graham, interim head of the Department of Africana Studies, worked to develop the curriculum with Girls Inc. of the Tennessee Valley, a nonprofit that inspires girls to be strong, smart, and bold. She also will deliver some of the lessons.

