Kenneth Lincoln

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Kenneth Lincoln has distinguished himself not only as a classroom teacher, but as the developer of educational programs. Fascinated by Native American literature, Lincoln is co-originator of the American Indian Studies Program at UCLA, pioneering many of the program’s component courses at a time when minority literature as still accorded dubious status by mainstream scholars.

Whether he’s chanting poetry of Sitting Bull or simply encouraging the adventuresome expression of ideas, Lincoln inspires Indian and non-Indian students alike. He has been known to bring his guitar to class, playing blues riffs to illustrate lessons in meter and poetic rhythm.

Beyond a mere “discussion” approach in class, Lincoln sharpens student involvement by making class sessions strenuously Socratic, emphasizing the importance of careful listening on the one hand and vital contribution on the other. Often, he encourages students to write poetry in the idiom of a poet they are studying.

Lincoln has given of his time as faculty advisor for Jacaranda Review, a graduate students’ literary journal. He also has inspired more Native Americans to complete bachelor’s degree work and motivated more of them to go on for graduate work than any other teacher at a major American research institution.

For his high degree of innovation and dedication to learning, Lincoln is this year’s recipient of the coveted Harvey L. Eby Award for the Art of Teaching. He personifies all that is excellent.