Dr. Kathryn Lofton

Biography

Kathryn Lofton is a historian of religion focusing on popular culture in the United States. Her earliest scholarly writing examined the history of Christian modernism and fundamentalism, as well as the historiography of African American religions. Lofton is the author of several significant works, including 'Oprah: Gospel Icon' (2011), which explores the cultural implications of Oprah Winfrey's influence on American spirituality. Her book 'Consuming Religion' (2017) rethinks the relationships between religion and popular culture, while her edited collection with Laurie Maffly-Kipp, 'Women’s Work: Anthology of African-American Women’s Historical Writings from Antebellum America to the Harlem Renaissance' (2010), brings together critical historical perspectives on the contributions of African-American women. Currently, her research is focused on understanding the role of religions in American history. Lofton has served as editor-at-large for 'The Immanent Frame' and co-curated a web project on spirituality titled 'Frequencies'. She co-edits the book series 'Class 200: New Studies in Religion' for the University of Chicago Press. Her leadership roles at Yale include Chair of LGBT Studies, Chair of the Program in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, and Chair of the Department of Religious Studies. Throughout her tenure, she has promoted faculty governance, diversity, and community ethics. Lofton has been honored with several awards for her teaching and mentorship, including the Poorvu Family Award for Interdisciplinary Teaching and the Graduate Mentor Award in Humanities.

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