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• Gaddis named an ARC Teaching Fellow

History professor named ARC Appalachian Teaching Fellow

Hollifield Associate Professor of Southern History Elijah Gaddis was named an Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) Appalachian Teaching Fellow for the 2023-2024 academic year for participation in the Appalachian Collegiate Research Initiative (ACRI). Gaddis's grant proposal was approved through a competitive process and funding supported a student community research project and participation in the ACRI capstone symposium held in Washington, DC. 

The ACRI is administered by the Center of Excellence for Appalachian Studies and Services at East Tennessee State University, a coalition of Appalachian centers and programs from 16 colleges and universities throughout the region. Through its programming, students develop vital skills in research, community development, leadership and communications. They also gain valuable experience by presenting their work at the annual symposium hosted by the ARC.

"Since 2001 nearly 3,000 students have participated in the ACRI program, thanks to the work of dedicated faculty like Dr. Gaddis," said Kostas Skordas, ARC director of research and evaluation. "These faculty members provide outstanding leadership and engage students at a level that goes far beyond a typical classroom experience."

Gaddis is also the co-director of the Community Histories Workshop at Auburn University and a faculty affiliate in the Africana Studies program. He is currently collaborating with a range of community partners including the Wallace Center for Arts and Reconciliation, the Boykin Community Center, the Garden District Preservation Association, Landmarks Foundation of Montgomery, Selma University and the Town of Prattville. His work with colleagues and collaborators has been funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities, National Park Service and a range of other organizations.

In his public history work, and in his teaching, Gaddis focuses on community engagement and collaboration.

Tags: Faculty History