Elizabeth Hewitt, a professor in the Department of English, has been appointed chair of the department beginning July 1, 2024.

Hewitt’s areas of expertise include pre-1900 American and African American literature, economics and literature, and popular culture. Her current research focuses on the history of science fiction, with a focus on utopian fictions.

“This year will be my 25th in the Department of English, a community that has helped me flourish as a scholar and teacher,” Hewitt said. “I am excited to provide to others the support and guidance that they have given to me.”

Hewitt holds a PhD and master’s degree in English literature from Johns Hopkins University and earned her bachelor’s degree from Amherst College. She joined the Department of English in 1999.