Reflection: Michael Sutherlin
Reflection: Michael Sutherlin
2023-24 Denbo Center Graduate Research Assistant
My introduction to the Denbo Center for Humanities and the Arts was through my friend, Lucas Nossaman, who was a previous graduate fellow at the Humanities Center [in 2020-21]. After praising many facets of the Center, he concluded with the following comment: “Again, the [Center’s graduate] fellowship was wonderful, truly one of the best parts of being at UT.”
I couldn’t agree more. It’s hard to communicate how much of a blessing my experience at the Humanities Center—now the Denbo Center—has been to me. I’ve learned so much just by attending many highly engaging events and working with the various scholars.
My own dissertation research concerns didacticism and propaganda in the twentieth century, and by attending the Center’s distinguished lectures and Chandler seminars, I have learned much about how my research overlaps with other scholar’s works. Having these conversations helped me imagine the possibilities of my research in ways I couldn’t have learned just from classes or on my own. For sure, this place is the hub for the humanities community.
As a GRA at the Center, I have also worked on a plethora of projects, including event organization, graduate programing, social media campaigns, digital humanities projects, and public engagement initiatives. These responsibilities have resulted in many professional skills. I have learned digital communications, team collaboration, editing, professional correspondence, problem solving, market analysis, leadership, and grant writing. I know that the Denbo Center has equipped me for careers in community engagement, non-profits, event logistics, and so much more.
The greatest benefit I’ve experienced here is getting to work with Amy Elias, Katie Hodges-Kluck, and all the other staff members and fellows. I’ve had the pleasure to engage in many deep conversations, belly laughs, and support from these amazing people. Overall, the Center contributes to the betterment of humanity, and this is why I know the Denbo donation will greatly benefit future students.
—Michael Sutherlin
Michael successfully defended his dissertation in July 2024. Thanks to connections that he made while organizing the DCHA’s alt-ac career panel (see opposite page), he started a new job at UT’s Global Computing Laboratory. We wish him luck with this exciting opportunity to put his humanistic training to use in new ways!