With the departure of Mr. Keith Belson, the upper school welcomes Dr. Timothy Griffiths to the English department. He will teach Third and Fourth Formers in English I and II.
Dr. Griffiths holds a B.A. in English from the University of Massachusetts Boston, an M.A. in English from Brooklyn College, and a Ph.D. in English from the City University of New York.
He previously served as an Adjunct Professor at Pace University, Moore College of Art and Design, and Hunter College, and as a lecturer at his alma mater, Brooklyn College.
Additionally, Dr. Griffiths completed Postdoctoral Research at Penn State and the University of Virginia.
Dr. Griffith’s path to academia came from humble beginnings.
“My parents were fantastic, but they didn’t go to college and couldn’t give me the guidance I needed to succeed,” Dr. Griffiths said. “Getting on the academic path was very difficult.”
Despite the setbacks, Dr. Griffiths persevered, driven by his desire to learn and help others.
“I didn’t let that deter me, despite the times I felt alienated,” he said.
Dr. Griffith’s decision to specialize in English literature derived from his desire to help young writers. He received the LGBTQA+ Educator of the Year Award from Pace University students in 2022 as an adjunct professor.
“As an adjunct, you often feel like a freelancer, not fully part of the community. So it meant a lot to be recognized despite that.”
Dr. Timothy Griffiths
“As an adjunct, you often feel like a freelancer, not fully part of the community. So it meant a lot to be recognized despite that.”
Dr. Griffiths encourages students to be consistent.
“You need to build the habit of reading and writing every single day,” he said. “Do it casually and you’ll discover if it’s truly something you want to pursue. Don’t narrow your interests too early, and be a copious and adventurous reader. Find people who challenge you and help you grow.”
Adding depth to Dr. Griffith’s skills is his skill in writing and editing. Dr. Griffiths is most proud of co-editing a special issue of Legacy: The Journal of American Women Writers, which explores underrecognized histories of gender, sexuality, and LGBTQ culture in women’s literature.
“My colleague and I brought together work from emerging scholars and others and even collaborated on the introduction and other works,” Dr. Griffiths said.
Dr. Griffiths is also an avid runner who has completed several marathons. He will join the cross-country coaching staff. He is also a member of a synth rock band, currently finishing up his album.
With his academic expertise, commitment to student growth, and professional endeavors, Dr. Griffiths is poised to make an impact on the school community.
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