In a bold continuation of its commitment to fostering literary excellence, Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) proudly announces the appointment of Tayari Jones, a New York Times Bestselling author and award-winning storyteller, as the 2024-2025 Writer-in-Residence for the renowned Toni Morrison Writing Program.

Tayari Jones, celebrated for her powerful, layered narratives that explore contemporary themes such as love, relationships, education, and entrepreneurship, will elevate the creative prowess of PVAMU’s masterclass students. As the latest Writer-in-Residence, Jones is poised to bring new creative energy to the university’s esteemed writing program, inspiring students, faculty, and the broader literary community.

Jones’s Influence on Modern Literature

Tayari Jones has already left an indelible mark on the literary world. Her gripping novel, An American Marriage, won numerous accolades, including the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work in Fiction, Oprah’s Book Club Selection, and the Women’s Prize for Fiction. Through her writing, she brings attention to timely social issues while weaving deeply personal stories that resonate with a wide audience. 

Recognized by literary giants such as Nikki Giovanni and the late Nobel Laureate Toni Morrison, Jones’s work has been praised for its emotional depth and intellectual maturity, even at a relatively young age. These qualities make her an ideal figure to inspire and mentor the next generation of writers at PVAMU.

The Legacy of the Toni Morrison Writing Program

PVAMU’s Toni Morrison Writing Program has long been a beacon of excellence, named after one of the most influential writers of our time. Over the years, the program has attracted leading literary voices to serve as Writers-in-Residence. According to Dr. Emma Joahanne Thomas-Smith, provost emerita and overseer of the program, each writer has left a lasting impact. 

“The presence of each Writer-in-Residence has deeply influenced our students and community, leaving behind not only lessons in craft but also inspiration,” said Dr. Thomas-Smith. 

The program’s legacy includes notable figures such as:

- Nikki Giovanni, who captivated audiences with her candid poetry and humor.

- Kevin Powell, who bridged hip-hop culture with messages of hope and renewal.

- Attica Locke, a versatile storyteller who seamlessly transitioned from writing fiction to producing for television, inspiring a new wave of creatives.

Jones’s residency promises to be just as transformative, with opportunities for students and faculty to engage with her through a series of public presentations, workshops, and masterclasses. 

Scheduled Appearances

As part of her residency, Tayari Jones will be visiting PVAMU for several key events:

Thursday, September 19, 2024

Thursday, October 10, 2024

Thursday, February 13, 2025

During these visits, Jones will share insights from her illustrious writing career and engage with students on their creative projects, offering invaluable mentorship. These interactive workshops are expected to spark new ideas and foster a community of talented writers eager to push the boundaries of contemporary literature.

A Stellar Academic and Professional Career

Tayari Jones brings not only her award-winning writing but also a wealth of academic experience to PVAMU. A graduate of Spelman College, she also holds degrees from the University of Iowa and Arizona State University. Currently, Jones serves as a Charles Howard Candler Professor at Emory University and an A.D. White Professor At Large at Cornell University.

Her unique ability to navigate the academic and literary worlds makes her an exemplary figure for PVAMU students, who are expected to benefit greatly from her expertise and mentorship during her tenure as Writer-in-Residence.

A Bright Future for PVAMU’s Literary Scene

The arrival of Tayari Jones signals yet another milestone in PVAMU’s ongoing mission to promote literary excellence. With a dynamic and accomplished figure like Jones at the helm of the **Toni Morrison Writing Program**, the university’s literary community is sure to flourish, producing the next generation of storytellers poised to make their mark on the world.

For more information, visit pvamu.edu