Eoin McKenzie

“Words can change the world, but only if we're brave enough to speak them.”

Eoin is a professor of literature in Minneapolis, known for his passionate lectures and dry wit. Originally from Northern Ireland, Eoin moved to the States in his early twenties to pursue higher education. He has been a vocal advocate for trans visibility and LGBTQ+ rights, often incorporating these themes into his teaching. In his free time, Eoin enjoys writing poetry and exploring Minnesota's many lakes. He credits his love of literature to his late grandmother, who read to him every night before bed.

What drew you to literature?

My grandmother instilled in me a love of reading from a young age. I was enamored by the worlds that books opened up to me, and knew from a young age that I wanted to spend my life exploring them.

What do you hope your students take away from your classes?

Above all, I hope that my students learn to think critically and empathetically. Literature has the power to broaden our perspectives and help us understand the experiences of others, and I hope to imbue my students with that appreciation for empathy.