Dr. Madison Sowell

Tusculum University's provost returns to Harvard for research fellowship on lithographs

GREENEVILLE - Dr. Madison Sowell, Tusculum University’s provost and vice president of academic affairs, is participating in a prestigious monthlong research fellowship at Harvard University.

A widely recognized interdisciplinary scholar, Dr. Sowell received the Howard D. Rothschild Visiting Fellowship in dance. His research project at Harvard is entitled “American Ballet Lithographs of the Romantic Era: A Study in Iconography and Cultural History.” His work is taking place in the Houghton Library.

“The Visiting Fellowship program offers scholars at all stages of their careers funding to pursue in-depth research on the library’s holdings, draw on staff expertise and participate in intellectual life at Harvard,” the university said.

This fellowship is the latest example of Dr. Sowell participating in professional development activities at an Ivy League institution. Previously, he engaged in certificate and post-doctoral studies programs at Harvard, Columbia University and Dartmouth College. He also earned his master’s degree and doctorate in romance languages and literatures from Harvard.

Dr. Sowell has served at Tusculum since 2018. During his career, he has published, edited or co-authored eight books and more than 130 articles, encyclopedia entries and book reviews on topics ranging from medieval Italian literature to 19th-Century theatrical almanacs and dance iconography.

“Tusculum is blessed to have a provost with the breadth and depth of knowledge of Dr. Sowell, and he sets an outstanding example that learning does not end with a diploma,” said Dr. James Hurley, Tusculum’s president. “He also shows his leadership by recommending faculty and staff members for further studies so they can enhance the student experience.”

Thanks to his fellowship, Dr. Sowell also has an opportunity to expand his horizons for Tusculum’s benefit.

“I am humbled by this recognition and honored to return to the university where I completed my graduate studies many years ago and where I have fond memories of my formation as a scholar,” he said. “The Harvard Theatre Collection, which houses some of Houghton Library’s greatest treasures, will provide extensive primary materials for my interdisciplinary research. I am grateful for this exceptional opportunity for additional professional growth.”