HAMPTON, Va. – (January 28, 2026) – Hampton University is proud to announce that Dr. Margaret Cox, Associate Professor in the Department of Literatures, Languages, and Film, has been awarded the prestigious 2025–2026 Virginia Humanities HBCU Scholars Fellowship. She joins the fellowship with her Hampton colleague Dr. Hannah Saltmarsh.
The Virginia Humanities HBCU Scholars Fellowship supports HBCU-affiliated writers, community scholars, faculty members, and doctoral candidates by providing funding for research, access to academic publishing outlets, public promotion of their work, and professional community and peer support. Dr. Cox is a member of the program’s 4th cohort of fellows.
Dr. Cox specializes in African American, Caribbean, and African literatures, with a particular interest in contemporary writers who adapt classic works by authors such as Shakespeare, Shelley, Austen, and Twain. Her research explores how these adaptations open conversations around themes and perspectives not fully addressed in the original works, particularly regarding Black experiences.
Her current book project, Owning the Narrative: Decolonizing the Canon through Adaptation, aims to provide opportunities for a deeper understanding of various aspects of human existence, stressing the importance of preserving literary interpretations of the past while raising timely discussions.
“I am honored to receive the Virginia Humanities HBCU Scholars Fellowship,” said Dr. Cox. “This support allows me to continue developing scholarship that amplifies underrepresented voices and examines how literature can reflect and challenge societal perceptions of Black experiences.”
Dr. Linda Malone-Colon, Dean of the School of Liberal Arts and Education at Hampton University, added, “Dr. Cox’s fellowship is a testament to her outstanding scholarship and dedication to elevating diverse perspectives within the humanities. Her work not only contributes to Hampton University’s academic excellence but also strengthens the broader community of scholars engaged in influential research.”
As a research-focused institution, Hampton University remains committed to fostering scholarly excellence and supporting faculty whose work advances knowledge and societal understanding. Dr. Cox’s fellowship exemplifies the University’s dedication to promoting research that highlights underrepresented voices, reinforces Hampton’s leadership in the humanities, and emphasizes its mission to cultivate a vibrant community of scholars making significant contributions to both academia and society.
ABOUT HAMPTON UNIVERSITY
Hampton University is a prestigious Carnegie R2-designated research institution, nationally acclaimed for pioneering work in atmospheric science, cancer treatment, and cybersecurity. With an annual economic impact of $530 million across the region and the Commonwealth of Virginia, Hampton stands as a powerful engine of innovation, workforce development, and inclusive economic growth.
Consistently recognized for academic excellence and transformative outcomes, Hampton was recently named one of the “Best Colleges in America” by Money Magazine and honored as the “Best Private College” by Coastal Virginia Magazine.
Founded in 1868, Hampton University is a proud, close-knit community of scholars, representing 44 states and 32 territories. With a legacy rooted in empowerment and education, the university is committed to nurturing intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and global citizenship — preparing students to lead with purpose and integrity in an ever-changing world. Learn more at: www.hamptonu.edu
For media inquiries, please contact Mahogany Waldon in the Office of University Relations at universityrelations@hamptonu.edu.
ABOUT VIRGINIA HUMANITIES
Virginia Humanities is the state humanities council. We aim to tell the stories of all Virginians—or, better yet, find ways for people to tell their own stories. We want Virginians to connect with their history and culture and, in doing that, we hope we will all get to know each other a little better. Virginia Humanities is headquartered in Charlottesville at the University of Virginia, but our work covers the Commonwealth. Founded in 1974, we are one of fifty-six humanities councils created by Congress with money and support from the National Endowment for the Humanities to make the humanities available to all Americans. To learn more visit VirginiaHumanities.org [virginiahumanities.org].
