Dr. John Lawless and Dr. Kaitlyn Selman, second-year professors at Illinois State University, are strengthening the African American studies (AAS) program through their passion for social justice, innovative teaching, and transformative research. As affiliate faculty members of the AAS program, Lawless and Selman bring a wealth of knowledge, diverse experiences, and a shared commitment to cultivating an educational atmosphere that nurtures critical thinking, activism, and systemic change.
Lawless, assistant professor in philosophy, has long been an advocate for understanding how historical legacies shape modern experiences. With a focus on the concept of freedom, Lawless integrates themes of race, identity, and social justice into his philosophy courses, encouraging students to critically examine the past and its impact on current societal structures.
“We cannot move forward without acknowledging where we’ve been,” Lawless said. “History teaches us not only about oppression but about resilience and resistance.”
His course—which contributes to the African American studies program—Philosophy 214: Introduction to Philosophy and Race emphasizes the need for contextual understanding of Black history and its connections to global movements for justice.
Selman is assistant professor in criminal justice sciences. With a background in criminology, Selman infuses diversity and social justice principles into her classroom, focusing on the systemic inequalities that exist within the criminal justice system.
“My approach to criminology is rooted in the understanding of race, gender, and other social structures,” Selman said. “At ISU, I’m able to engage with an institution that values these intersections as central to understanding criminal justice.”
Her courses aim to challenge students to think critically about how race and power dynamics influence legal systems, while empowering them to become advocates for meaningful reform. Recently, Selman gave a talk as part of the African American Studies Fall Speaker Series centered on her research with the Chicago Public Schools Reparations Won 10th grade history curriculum, demonstrating that her scholarly work is aligned with enhancing the understanding that students have about the history of Chicago.
Both professors find common ground in their belief that the African American studies program offers students not only the academic tools to understand injustice but also the empowerment to engage in social change.
Lawless appreciates the program’s focus on historical analysis, recognizing that an in-depth understanding of African American history allows students to draw connections to present-day movements for justice.
“Students can look at today’s challenges and see how far we’ve come—and how much work is left to do” he said.
In addition to their classroom teachings, Lawless and Selman are working together to develop a curriculum that speaks to the future of social justice. Selman is developing a course that focuses on alternatives to traditional criminal justice systems, including mutual aid networks and abolitionist movements. She hopes this course will honor the work of Black communities—especially Black women—who have long imagined and fought for a more equitable and liberated future.
“Black communities have consistently resisted oppressive systems,” Selman said. “This course will provide students with the tools to envision new models of justice and equity.”
Both African American studies professors have also found a welcoming and enriching environment at Illinois State, where the resources and support available enhance both their professional and personal lives.
Selman, who previously taught at a smaller institution in Kentucky, has embraced the opportunities afforded by a larger university. She values campus resources, including family programs like campus swim sessions that she enjoys with her child.
For Lawless, the environment has allowed him to expand his academic research and engage with a broader network of scholars.
Through their teaching and collaborative efforts, Lawless and Selman are shaping the future of the African American studies program at Illinois State, preparing students to think intentionally about race, social justice, and systems of power and oppression, while also inspiring them to become active participants in the ongoing plight for social change. Their dedication to empowering the next generation of leaders ensures that the African American studies program remains at the forefront of academic excellence and social activism.