Mission and Values

Mission

From our ambitious students to our accomplished faculty, we understand English as the timely study of the production, transmission, adaptation and interpretation of a broad range of literary and cultural traditions and forms of media. Optimizing the rich archival and cultural resources of Maryland and the D.C. metro area, our internationally-renowned faculty introduce students to cutting-edge research and creative practices shaping the field, preparing them for a meaningful and rewarding future addressing the local, national and global concerns affecting us all.

Values

We are living in a moment marked by the legitimation of bigotry, hate and misinformation.

The University of Maryland Department of English emphatically condemns all acts of racism, sexism, ableism, classism, xenophobia, antisemitism, homophobia, transphobia and Islamophobia. We take heart in our common pursuit of literature, language and media as vital to crossing the boundaries of difference.

The discipline of English is a source of meaning and resilience at this time of misunderstanding and fear. It makes us discerning about language and media and their effects. It drives us to question ourselves and to empathize with diverse identities. And it helps us to compose a better world.

We reaffirm our commitment to the pursuit of knowledge, critical insight and shared understanding by affirming what we value: social justice, diversity and open inquiry. We stand together with all vulnerable members of the campus community and the University System of Maryland.