Jefferey Weinstock, a faculty member in the Department of English Language and Literature, announced on Apr. 1 that The Society for the Study of the American Gothic has surpassed 300 members and recently held its second international symposium. The event, titled “American Nightmares II: Return to Salem,” took place during the week of March 19 in Salem, Massachusetts.
The society was founded by Weinstock in 2023 to promote research, teaching, and publication related to the American Gothic. The organization aims to connect individuals and institutions both nationally and internationally who are interested in this field.
Weinstock directed the recent symposium, which included 140 presentations from scholars around the world. Author Victor LaValle and scholar Sian Silyn Roberts delivered keynote addresses at the conference. “It is the goal of the Society to strengthen relations among persons and institutions both in the United States and internationally who are undertaking such studies, and to broaden knowledge among the general public about the American Gothic in its many forms,” said Weinstock.
In addition to his work with The Society for the Study of the American Gothic, Weinstock’s anthology “The Horror Theory Reader” was published earlier this year by University of Minnesota Press.
Central Michigan University (CMU), where Weinstock is a professor, leads nationally in participation for Alternative Breaks programs according to its official website. CMU is also recognized as one of two Adobe Creative Campuses in Michigan and one of four Celonis Academic Centers of Excellence nationwide according to its official website.
CMU offers more than 200 academic programs across seven colleges including undergraduate, graduate, online, and study abroad options according to its official website. The university focuses on delivering comprehensive education aimed at preparing students for successful careers and lifelong learning as per its official website. CMU ranks first in Michigan—and sixth in the Midwest—for highest earnings among females under age forty as noted on its official website, while also extending educational offerings through online platforms and study abroad opportunities beyond Michigan according to its official website.
