Professor Kiese Laymon Receives Prestigious MacArthur Fellowship for Outstanding Research

As a distinguished Black Southern writer, Professor Laymon has utilized his unique perspective to explore themes of violence and identity in his writings, spanning across various forms such as essays, memoirs, and fiction. His profound insights and compelling narratives have garnered widespread acclaim and admiration within academic and literary circles.

Feb 15, 2024 - 15:11 Updated: Feb 16, 2024 - 11:22

Professor Kiese Laymon Receives Prestigious MacArthur Fellowship for Outstanding Research

Renowned Professor of English at Rice University, Kiese Laymon, has been honored with the esteemed MacArthur Fellowship, commonly known as the "genius grant," for the 2022 cycle. Professor Laymon's exceptional contributions to the field of literature and his impactful research have earned him this prestigious recognition.

As a distinguished Black Southern writer, Professor Laymon has utilized his unique perspective to explore themes of violence and identity in his writings, spanning across various forms such as essays, memoirs, and fiction. His profound insights and compelling narratives have garnered widespread acclaim and admiration within academic and literary circles.

In addition to his remarkable literary achievements, Professor Laymon's win marks a significant milestone for Rice University, as he becomes only the second recipient of the MacArthur Fellowship in the university's history. His groundbreaking work exemplifies the university's commitment to academic excellence and intellectual innovation.

Upon receiving the $800,000 award as part of the 2022 cohort of MacArthur Fellows, Professor Laymon expressed humility and gratitude for the recognition bestowed upon him. Despite his modesty regarding awards and accolades, he acknowledged the significance of this particular honor and thanked the MacArthur Foundation for acknowledging his work.

President Reginald DesRoches hailed Professor Laymon's achievement as a monumental success for Rice University, underscoring the profound impact of his research and creative pursuits. The recognition not only highlights Professor Laymon's individual accomplishments but also reflects the university's reputation for fostering groundbreaking scholarship and intellectual inquiry.

Provost Amy Dittmar commended Professor Laymon for his exceptional contributions to Rice University and the broader academic community. Despite his relatively short tenure at the university, Professor Laymon has already left an indelible mark on students and colleagues alike, earning widespread acclaim for his outstanding talent and scholarly achievements.

Looking ahead, Professor Laymon expressed his commitment to leveraging the grant money to facilitate meaningful connections between middle school students in Houston and Jackson, Mississippi. His dedication to nurturing the next generation of scholars and artists underscores his passion for education and community engagement.

In conclusion, Professor Kiese Laymon's receipt of the MacArthur Fellowship is a testament to his exceptional talent, groundbreaking research, and profound impact on academia and society. His visionary work exemplifies the transformative power of literature and reinforces the importance of fostering diverse voices and perspectives in scholarly discourse.