Ben Vinson III, a prominent historian and higher education leader, has joined Harvard University’s Hutchins Center as a fellow at the Afro-Latin American Research Institute (ALARI). His appointment comes on the heels of his term as president of the American Historical Association, where he recently addressed the challenges and opportunities in higher education.
Henry Louis Gates Jr., director of the Hutchins Center, praised Vinson’s career, highlighting his impactful scholarship and dedication to global histories of people of African descent. “His work on race and caste in colonial Mexico has shed light on the complexities of the African diaspora,” Gates noted. “We are thrilled to have him at ALARI to continue crucial projects like AI in Higher Education.”
Alejandro de la Fuente, director of ALARI, underscored Vinson’s significance in Afro-Latin American Studies. “You can’t talk about this field without mentioning Ben’s contributions. He has reshaped our understanding of Africa’s role in Latin America.” His scholarship has broadened perspectives on the African presence in the region, making his books vital for anyone studying this area.
At ALARI, Vinson has collaborated with Paul Tiyambe Zeleza on a major project titled “AI in Higher Education.” He is also delving into topics like slavery in Latin America and how racial mixtures evolved in Mexico. “ALARI provides an inspiring space for collaboration and new ideas,” he shared.
A seasoned award-winning historian, Vinson has authored or co-authored eight books and numerous articles, significantly influencing Latin American and hemispheric history. His 2019 book, “Before Mestizaje,” won the Howard F. Cline Book Prize from the Latin American Studies Association. His upcoming project focuses on Frank Etheridge, a Black jazz musician during the Jim Crow era, highlighting the intersections of race and culture.
Vinson’s career reflects a blend of scholarly achievement and leadership roles. He previously served as the president of Howard University and held key positions at various universities. He has also been recognized with major fellowships and honors, including membership in the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.
With his diverse experience, Vinson is poised to make a lasting impact at ALARI and in the broader field of Afro-Latin American Studies, further enriching our understanding of cultural and racial dynamics.
For more insights into African diaspora studies, check out the Hutchins Center here.
