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Joi Carr Faculty Profile

Joi Carr

Professor of English & Film
Blanche E. Seaver Professor of Humanities and Teacher Education
Director - Film
Academic Director
Institute for Entertainment Media and Sports
Humanities/Teacher Education Division, Seaver College
CAC 112

Education

  • PhD, English, Literature and Film Studies, Claremont Graduate University

  • MA, Interdisciplinary Studies (English, Theater, History), Texas Tech University

  • MA, Religion Interdisciplinary History, Pepperdine University

  • MLS, Master of Law, Legal Studies, Pepperdine University, Caruso School of Law 

  • MDR, Master of Law, Dispute Resolution, Pepperdine University, Caruso School of Law

  • BS, Bible and Ministry, Lubbock Christian University, Lubbock, Texas, Summa Cum Laude

  • BA, Liberal Arts, Lubbock Christian University, Lubbock, Texas, Magna Cum Laude

  • Post-Doctoral Studies, Women's and Gender Studies Certificate, Claremont Graduate University

  • Post-Doctoral Studies, African Studies Certificate, Claremont Graduate University

 

Books

  • Carr, J. Gracing It Out: Voice as Vocational Journey, in progress.
  • Carr, J. Movies, Myth, Culture, and Me, Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans [in progress for release 2024].
  • Carr, J. She’s Reel: Black Women (Re)Constructing Cinematic Voice. New York: Peter Lang Publishing, Inc. [forthcoming 2024].
  • Carr, J. Voice: African American Women and Vocation. Eugene, OR: Cascade Books, [forthcoming 2023].
  • Carr, J. Boyz N the Hood: Shifting Hollywood Terrain. Revised Edition with Foreword by Stephanie Allain. New York: Peter Lang Publishing, Inc, 2023.
  • Carr, J. Boyz N the Hood: Shifting Hollywood Terrain. New York: Peter Lang Publishing, 2018.
  • Carr, J. Encountering Texts: The Multicultural Theatre Project and ‘Minority’ Literature. New York: Peter Lang Publishing, 2015.

Edited Volumes

  • Carr, J. Editor. Theomusicology and Ralph Ellison’s Invisible Man [in progress].
  • Carr, J. Editor. John Singleton, The Soulful Auteur, Bloomington, IN: Indiana University Press [in progress].
  • Carr, J. Editor. Black Camera International Journal, BC Vol. 7, No. 2 (Spring, 2016), Indiana: Indiana University Press.

Articles/Chapters

  • Carr, J. (2023) “Framing the Feminine: Harriet, Constructing Black Female Subjectivity and Agency.” In The Post-Soul Cinema of Kasi Lemmons, Dianah Wynter Ed. New York: Palgrave Macmillan. 
  • Carr, J. (2021). “What Happens when Classical Hollywood Narrative and American Mythos Converge?” Blessed Are Those who Ask Questions. Jaye Smith Ed. Charlotte, NC: Information Age Publishing, 95-118. 
  • Carr, J. (2021). “Crafting Longevity: An Interview with Triple Emmy Award Winner and Tony award Nominee, Keith David,” PAMLA, Vol. 56, No. 1 (Spring 2021): 60-77.
  • Carr, J. (2016). “Django Unchained: Disrupting Classic Hollywood Historic Realism?" Black Camera International Journal, BC Vol. 7, No.2 (Spring, 2016): 37-44.
  • Carr, J. (2016). “To Be Actually Honest: An Interview with Reginald Hudlin (Writer, Producer, Director and Executive)." Black Camera International Journal, BC Vol. 7, No. 2 (Spring, 2016): 45-61.
  • Carr, J. (2013). "The Paraphernalia of Suffering: Chris Rock's Good Hair, Still Playing in the Dark." Black Camera International Journal, BC Vol. 5, No. 1 (Winter, 2013): 56-71.
  • Carr, J. (2007). "Missy Elliot: Transcending Conventional Hip Hop Aesthetics and Industry Norms." In Icons of Hip Hop, Volume II, Mickey Hess Ed. Tennessee: Greenwood Press, 2007, 503-527.
  • Carr, J. (2007). "Maya Angelou." In Encyclopedia of African American Women Writers, Volume I. Yolanda William Page Ed. Tennessee: Greenwood Press, 2007.

Creative Works

  • Vocal Arranger. (2019). Native Son. Director: Andi Chapman. Adaptation: Nambi E, Kelley,Kirk Dougkas Theatre, Center Theatre Group, Los Angeles, CA.
  • Vocal Arranger. (2018). Native Son. Director: Andi Chapman. Adaptation: Nambi E, Kelley, Anteaus Theatre, Kiki & David Gindler Performing Arts Center, Glendale, CA.
  • Playwright and Director. (2018) Epiphany, Multicultural Theatre Project, Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA.
  • Director and Creator. (2015) Let's Talk About Love, featuring singer-songwriter/Grammy award nominee Amel Larrieux and actor/Emmy Award nominee Jason George (Grey’s Anatomy), Multicultural Theatre Project, Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA.
  • Playwright and Director. (2014) Lift Every Voice, Multicultural Theatre Project, Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA. 
  • Playwright and Director. (2013) Liberte, featuring Actor and Tony Award/Obie Award winner L. Scott Caldwell (Lost) and violinist/conductor Yvette Devereaux, Multicultural Theatre Project, Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA.
  • Playwright and Director. (2011). Love is Candies Cafe, Multicultural Theatre Project, Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA.
  • Playwright and Director. (2010) The Jazz Age, a musical, Multicultural Theatre Project, Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA.
  • Playwright and Director. (2006). Once Upon a Time, Multicultural Theatre Project, Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA.
  • Playwright and Director. (2005). Jubilee: A Celebration of Gospel Music, Multicultural Theatre Project, Smothers Theater, Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA.
  • Playwright and Director. (2004). Motown and the Sixties, a musical, Multicultural Theatre Project, Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA.
  • Playwright and Director. (2003). Voice! Multicultural Theatre Project, Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA.
  • Playwright and Director. (2002). A Different Mirror, Multicultural Theatre Project, Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA.
  • Playwright and Director. (2001). Who Do You Think I Am, Multicultural Theatre Project, Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA.
  • Playwright and Director. (2001). Harlem Renaissance Culture, Multicultural Theatre Project, Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA.

Academic Awards

  • 2019-2024. Endowed Professorship, Blanche E. Seaver Professor of Humanities and Teacher Education.
  • 2018. Distinction in Diversity and Inclusive Excellence, Pepperdine University
  • 2018. Black Student Association, Faculty Honor for the Advancement of Diversity and Inclusion at Seaver College, Pepperdine University, 
  • 2004. Brett J. Love Award for Teaching Excellence, Pepperdine University
  • 2004. Named Honorary Alumna, Southwestern Christian College, University Board of Directors
  • 2002. Exemplary Teaching in the Area of Faith and Learning, Pepperdine University
  • 2001-2002. Jonathan Dolgen Fellow, Claremont University, Ph.D. studies
  • 2000-2005. Irvine Scholar, Seaver College Pepperdine University, Ph.D. studies

Vocal Awards

  • 2018. Album of the Year, Noel, An Acapella Christmas, Christian Acappella Music Awards, National Academy of Christian Acappella Music Artists (NACAMA).
  • 2016. SAR Lifetime Achievement Award, Sing A Rama Acappella Music Conference. 
  • 2014. Producer of the Year, Christian Acappella Music Awards, NACAMA.    
  • 2012. RUBAL Lifetime Achievement Award, Christian Acappella Music Awards, NACAMA.  
  • 2012. Album of the Year, Heaven (duets), Christian Acappella Music Awards, NACAMA.  
  • 2008. Sharon Tolliver Exemplary Faith Award, Christian Acappella Music Awards, NACAMA.  
  • 2000. Singer/Songwriter/Producer of the Year, Christian Acappella Music Awards, NACAMA.   
  • 1998. Female Vocalist of the Year, Christian Acappella Music Awards, NACAMA.   
  • 1996. Studio Vocalist of the Year, Christian Acappella Music Awards, NACAMA.   
  • 1995. Best Doo-Wop/R&B Song, “Stamp of Approval,” The Acappella Company, Contemporary Acappella Society of America.
  • 1994. Female Vocalist of the Year, Christian Acappella Music Awards, NACAMA.  

Honors

  • Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers, Recognition, Seaver Student nomination, 2006 
  • Academic Keys, Who's Who in Humanities Higher Education, 2005 
  • Who's Who Among College Professors, 2002

Memberships / Affiliations

  • American Academy of Religion (AAR)
  • American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP)
  • Association of Black Women in Higher Education (ABWHE)
  • Association for Theatre in Higher Education (ATHE)
  • Broadcast Music, Inc (BMI)
  • Conference on Christianity and Literature (CCL)
  • Modern Language Association (MLA)
  • National Council for Black Studies (NCBS)
  • Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Association (PAMLA)
  • Phi Alpha Theta (History Honors Society) 
  • Sigma Tau Delta (English Honors Society)
  • Society for Cinema and Media Studies (SCMS)
  • Society for the Study of Black Religion (SSBR)
  • Society for the Study of the Multi-Ethnic Literature in the United States (MELUS)
  • Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA)

Panels / Symposiums

  • December 2019. Producer and Moderator. 
    “Intimate Conversation with Director Scott Marshall and Producer/Director Ellen Schwartz,” Multicultural Theatre Project, Student Affairs, Pepperdine University, Elkins Auditorium, Malibu, CA.
  • November 2019. Producer and Moderator. 
    “Engage Symposium 2019: 21st Century Ciné Art as Industry,” Hosts: Mignon (Tyler Perry’s Sistas) and Tara Kelly (Founder, Conscious Creators Collective). Keynote Conversation: Steve Nicolaides (Producer, Executive Producer, Boyz N the Hood, Stand By Me), Stephanie Allain, (Producer/Executive Producer, Hustle & Flow), and Shelia Morgan Ward, Chief Executive, New Deal Productions). Panelists and Contributors: Christa Zofcin Workman (Chief Operating Officer, River Road Entertainment, formerly Head of Business Affairs for United Artists), Quincy Newell (Founder and President, TwentyOne 14, formerly Executive Vice President & General Manager for Codeblack Films, Lionsgate), Endyia Kinney-Sterns (Founder and Chief Executive Officer, EKS Consulting Firm, formerly Vice President of Development and Programming for OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network), Glynn Turman (Actor/Director, Cooley High, The Wire), Ellen Crawford (Actor, ER) and Mike Genovese (Actor, ER). Institute for Entertainment, Media, Sports, and Culture, Pepperdine University, Santa Monica, CA.
  • November 2019. Producer and Moderator. 
    “Intimate Conversation with Dr. Charles Long, pre-eminent scholar African American religious history and Emeritus Professor of History of Religions, University of California, Santa Barbara,” Multicultural Theatre Project, Student Affairs, Pepperdine University, Elkins Auditorium, Malibu, CA. 
  • October 2019. Producer and Moderator. 
    “Intimate Conversation with Jordan Carpenter, Portrait Artist,” Multicultural Theatre Project, Student Affairs, Pepperdine University, Elkins Auditorium, Malibu, CA.
  • November 2018. Project Director and Moderator. 
    “SoCal Summit on Black Masculinity,” California Humanities, D. Channsin Berry (producer/director), Preston "Projecc" Carey (krump artist), Dr. Raymond Carr (assistant professor of theology and ethics), Marquisa "Miss Prissy" Gardner (actor/krump pioneer), Dr. Javon Johnson (spoken word artist/assistant professor of African American studies), Jeffrey Williams (counselor, MA, MFTI), Chris "Worm" Lewis (krump pioneer), Steve Nicolaides (Boyz N the Hood producer, executive producer), Aaron W. Lindsey (producer-writer/musician), Andrew Thomas (Young Ambassadors Leadership Academy), Ronnie Walker (retired Los Angeles Police Officer and youth advocate), Derek “Fonzworth Bentley” Watkins (producer/philanthropist), Karl Anthony Simpson (spoken word/rap artist), Culver City, CA.
  • November 2018. Producer and Moderator. 
    “Engage Symposium 2018: 21st Century Creatives and Storytellers” Hosts/Moderators: Kim Coles (Actor/Comedian, Living Single) and Dr. Joi Carr (Actor/Professor). Keynote Conversation: Cedric “The Entertainer” (Actor/Comedian, The Neighborhood), Effie Brown (Producer, Duly Noted Inc., Real Woman Have Curves, Dear White People), Chay Carter - Producer, Little Bricks Entertainment, Argo), Suzanne Farwell (Producer/Writer, Resonate Entertainment, It’s Complicated, The Intern), Obba Babatundé (Actor, Singer-Dancer, Introducing Dorothy Dandridge), Erica Gimpel (Actor, Singer-Songwriter, Fame), Vanessa Williams (Actor/Director, Soul Food), Mauricio Mota (Producer, Wise Entertainment) and Marlon Young (Actor/Screenwriter, Survivor's Remorse). Institute for Entertainment, Media, Sports, and Culture, Pepperdine University, Santa Monica, CA.
  • November 2017. Producer and Moderator. 
    “Intimate Conversation with Producer and Head of Pictures, Will Packer Productions, James Lopez,” Multicultural Theatre Project, Student Affairs, Pepperdine University, Elkins Auditorium, Malibu, CA.
  • November 2017. Producer and Moderator. 
    “Intimate Conversation with Producer Steve Nicolaides (Boyz N the Hood/When Harry Met Sally),” Multicultural Theatre Project, Student Affairs, Pepperdine University, Elkins Auditorium, Malibu, CA.
  • November 2017. Producer and Moderator. 
    “Intimate Conversation with Screenwriter J.F. Lawton (Pretty Woman) and Director Scott Marshall,” Multicultural Theatre Project, Student Affairs, Pepperdine University, Elkins Auditorium, Malibu, CA.
  • November 2017. Producer and Moderator. 
    “Engage Symposium 2017: Navigating Hollywood’s Shifting Terrain.” Hosts/Moderators: Lisa Vidal (Actor, Being Mary Jane), Jason George, (Actor, Grey's Anatomy), and Dr. Joi Carr (Professor and Actor). Keynote Conversations​: Industry legend, Suzanne de Passe (Co-Chairman, de Passe Jones Entertainment Group) and notable executive, Carmi Zlotnik (President of Programming, Starz)​. Panelists and Contributors: Edward Allen (COO, Pantelion Films), Effie Brown (award winning Producer, Duly Noted Inc., Project Greenlight), Deborah Calla (Principal, Calla Productions), Keith Clinkscales, (Founder and CEO, The Shadow League), Madeline di Nonno (CEO, Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media), James Lopez (Producer, Head of Motion Pictures, Will Packer Productions), Courtney McCarthy (Lead Strategist and Producer, Google), William Nix (Chairman, Creative Projects Group), Haylen Van Koppen (Chief Human Resources Officer, Legendary Entertainment), Dondre' Whitfield (Actor, Queen Sugar), and Marlon Young, (Actor/Screenwriter, Survivor's Remorse). Quincy Newell, Engage 2017 Producer. Institute for Entertainment, Media, Sports, and Culture, Pepperdine University, Santa Monica, CA.
  • April 2017. Producer and Moderator. 
    “Intimate Conversation with Singer-Songwriter Amel Larrieux,” Multicultural Theatre Project, Student Affairs, Pepperdine University, Elkins Auditorium, Malibu, CA.

  • October 2016. Producer and Moderator. 
    “Intimate Conversation with singer-songwriter and Grammy Award Nominee Kenny Lattimore and Producer/Songwriter and multi-Grammy, multi-Stellar and multi-Dove winner Aaron Lindsey,” Multicultural Theatre Project, Student Affairs, Pepperdine University, Elkins Auditorium, Malibu, CA. 

  • November 2015. Producer and Moderator. 
    “Intimate Conversation with Singer-Songwriter Ellis Hall, The Ambassador of Soul,” Multicultural Theatre Project, Student Affairs, Pepperdine University, Elkins Auditorium, Malibu, CA.

  • October 2015. Producer and Moderator. 
    “Stunt Women and Motion Pictures: Distinguished Panel Discussion,” with stunt pioneer Jadie David (Coffy/Foxy Brown), La Faye Baker (Mission Impossible II), and Jessie Graf (Fast and Furious), Multicultural Theatre Project, Student Affairs, Pepperdine University, Elkins Auditorium, Malibu, CA  

  • October 2014. Producer and Moderator. 
    “Intimate Conversation with actor/Emmy Award nominee Jason George (Grey’s Anatomy),” Multicultural Theatre Project, Student Affairs, Pepperdine University, Raitt Recital Hall, Malibu, CA.

  • March 2014. Producer and Moderator.
    “Intimate Conversation with Singer-Songwriter/Actor and Grammy Award winner Dawn Lewis,” Multicultural Theatre Project, Student Affairs, Pepperdine University, Raitt Recital Hall, Malibu, CA. 

  • October 2013. Producer and Moderator. 
    “Intimate Conversation with Actor-Producer, Lisa Vidal,” Multicultural Theatre Project, Student Affairs, Pepperdine University, Raitt Recital Hall, Malibu, CA. 

  • November 2012. Producer and Moderator. 
    “Social Typage and Cinema: Distinguished Panel Discussion,” actor/producer Assaf Cohen, actor and  NAACP Image Award nominee, two-time MTV Movie Award winner Sean Patrick Thomas,  actor/producer and  Imagen Award Best Actress winner, three-time Outstanding Actress ALMA Award nominee Lisa Vidal, actor and NAMIC Vision Awards Best Actress nominee Gwendoline Yeo, Multicultural Theatre Project, Student Affairs, Pepperdine University, Elkins Auditorium, Malibu, CA. 
  • October 2012. Facilitator and Producer. 
    “Master Class: Acting,” led by veteran actor and triple Emmy Award winner and Tony Award nominee Keith David, Multicultural Theatre Project, Student Affairs, Pepperdine University, Raitt Recital Hall, Malibu, CA. 
  • March 2012. Producer and Moderator. 
    “The Cinematic Gaze: Distinguished Panel on Women and Film,” featured actor/sports broadcaster and Emmy Award winner Jayne Kennedy Overton,  television/film producer and talent manager Sonja Norwood, actor/activist Anne Begay, and actor and SAG Award nominee April Grace, Multicultural Theatre Project, Student Affairs, Pepperdine University, Elkins Auditorium, Malibu, CA. 
  • March 2012. Producer and Moderator. 
    “(Un)healthy Relationships: How Did I Get Here?” Julianna Reed and Nivla Y. Fitzpatrick (Associate Director, Pepperdine University Counseling Center), Multicultural Theatre Project Student Affairs, Pepperdine University, Elkins Auditorium, Malibu, CA. 
  • March 2012. Producer.
    “Acting Master Class,” led by veteran actor and Emmy Award nominee Obba Babatundé, Multicultural Theatre Project, Student Affairs, Pepperdine University, Raitt Recital Hall, Malibu, CA. 
  • February 2012. Producer and Moderator. 
    “Variations of Color on Celluloid: Distinguished Panel on African American Cinema,” actor-director and Emmy Award nominee Obba Babatundé, actor and NAACP Image Award nominee Michael Boatman, actor and producer/director Wren T. Brown, actor and Tony Award nominee, three-time Emmy Award winner Keith David, actor and SAG Award nominee April Grace, Multicultural Theatre Project, Student Affairs, Pepperdine University, Elkins Auditorium, Malibu, CA. 

Conference Papers

  • Carr, J. (August 2019). Plenary Panel, “Film, Media and the Good Life?” Pedagogy of the Good Life Conference, Yale Divinity School, Yale University and Center for Faith and Learning, Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA.

  • Carr, J. (June 2019). “Critical Reflections on Boyz N the Hood Shifting Hollywood Terrain, Book Release,” Christian Scholars’ Conference, Lipscomb University, Lubbock, TX.

  • Carr, J. (November 2018). “Deconstructing Cinematic Mythos: Classical Hollywood Language and Gender Politics,” The Agape Conference, Houston, TX.

  • Carr, J. (August 2018). Plenary Address, “Where Do We Go From Here: John Singleton’s Courage to Face Catastrophe,” Dikaiosune Conference, Los Angeles, CA.

  • Carr, J. (November 2017). “‘I Am an Invisible Man’: Boyz N the Hood and The Literary and Cinematic Imagination,” 115th Annual Conference of the Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Association (PAMLA), Honolulu, HI.

  • Carr, J. (November 2017). “Religion and Empire: Aesthetic Language and American Identity Politics,” 80th Annual Southwestern Christian College Lectureship, Terrell, TX.

  • Carr, J. (June 2017). “(De)Mythologization of Black Criminality: From Birth of A Nation to Boyz N the Hood,” Christian Scholars Conference, Lipscomb University, Nashville, TN.

  • Carr, J. (March 2017). “Recouping History: 12 Years a Slave and The Plantation Mistress(es)” 41st Annual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), Charlotte, NC.  

  • Carr, J. (March 2017). “Boyz N The Hood: Shifting ‘Hollywood Classical’ Terrain” 41st Annual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), Houston, TX.  

  • Carr, J. (November 2016). Fanon’s “Black Soul”: Tarantino’s Django Unchained (2012) and Séjour’s “The Mulatto” (1837), 114th Annual Conference of the Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Association (PAMLA), Pasadena, CA.  

  • Carr, J. (March 2016). “Voice: African American Women and Vocation” 40thAnnual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), Charlotte, NC.  

  • Carr, J. (March 2016). “Pathetic Structure: Tarantino’s Django Unchained and Sejour’s The Mulatto,” 40th Annual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS). Charlotte, NC.

  • Carr, J. (March 2015). “Signifying on the Signifiers: Narrative Structure and The Help,” 39th Annual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), Los Angeles, CA.  

  • Carr, J. (November 2014). Disrupting Hollywood Conventions: What Mari Evans’ “Status Symbol” Can Offer The Help, 112th Annual Conference of the Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Association (PAMLA), San Diego, CA.

  • Carr, J. (March 2014). “Ralph Ellison’s Invisible Man: Salvific Messianic Language Disrupting the Constructed Self,” 38th Annual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), Miami, FL.  

  • Carr, J. (March 2014). “‘He May Be Born Good, Noble and Generous’: Tarantino’s Django and Sejour’s Georges,” 38th Annual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), Miami, FL.  

  • Carr, J. (March 2014). “The Transformative Power of Diversity Through an Integrative Learning Project,” Christians on Diversity in the Academy Conference, Arcadia, CA.

  • Carr, J. (February 2014). “Digital Storytelling: Student Learning and Assessment,” 26th Annual Lilly National Conference on College and University Teaching (International Alliance of Teacher Scholars), New Port Beach, CA. 

  • Carr, J. (November 2013). “Maya Angelou’s Prophetic Voice: Deconstructing the Myths America Lives By,” 111thAnnual Conference of the Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Association (PAMLA), Bahia Resort, San Diego, CA. 

  • Carr, J. (October 2013). “Telling Your Story in Academia through Research and Publication,” Annual Writing Retreat, Association of Black Women in Higher Education Los Angeles Chapter (ABWHE), Malibu, CA. 

  • Carr, J., Francis, M. and T. Roby. (October 2013). “Negotiating Isolation in Academia,” Annual Writing Retreat, Association of Black Women in Higher Education Los Angeles Chapter (ABWHE), Malibu, CA. 

  • Carr, J. (March 2013). “Digital Storytelling and Critical Self-Reflection,” 25th Annual Lilly National Conference on College and University Teaching (International Alliance of Teacher Scholars), Pomona, CA. 

  • Carr, J. (March 2013). “Triumph in the Get Away: Van Peebles’ Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song,” 37th Annual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), Indianapolis, IN.  

  • Carr, J. (January 2013). “Mediating Madness: A Womanist Critique of Images of African American Women in the Media,”  Graduate Theological Union, Africana Religious Studies, Berkeley, CA.

  • Carr, J. (October 2012). “The Paraphernalia of Suffering: Chris Rock’s Good Hair, Still Playing in the Dark,” 110th Annual Conference of the Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Association (PAMLA), Scripps College, Seattle, WA. 

  • Carr, J. (March 2012). “Hair Battle Royale: Chris Rock’s Good Hair,” 36th Annual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), Atlanta, GA.  

  • Carr, J. (March 2012). “Maya Angelou: Deconstructing the Myths America Lives By,” 36th Annual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), Atlanta, GA.  

  • Carr, J. (March 2012). “Engaged Learning: Making Facts and Statistics Fun,” 24th Annual Lilly National Conference on College and University Teaching (International Alliance of Teacher Scholars), Pomona, CA. 

  • Carr, J. and Roby, T. (January 2012). “Creating Conference Abstracts and Presentations,” Mentoring Workshop, National Conference for the Association of Black Women in Higher Education Los Angeles Chapter (ABWHE), Culver City, CA.

  • Carr, J. and Tarleton, H. (January 2012). “Dealing with Fear and Rejection in Publishing and Working with Reviewers/Co-Authors,” Mentoring Workshop, National Conference for the Association of Black Women in Higher Education Los Angeles Chapter (ABWHE), Culver City, CA.

  • Carr, J. (November 2011). “Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song: Visual Representation of the Emergence of Ellison’s Invisible Man,” 109th Annual Conference of the Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Association (PAMLA), Scripps College, Claremont, CA. 

  • Carr, J. (May 2011). “Ralph Ellison’s Invisible Man: Mediating Self-Knowledge through Messianic Language,” The King James Bible and Its Cultural Afterlife, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH. 

  • Carr, J. (April 2011). “Storying Ourselves: Creating Your Own Personal and Professional Narrative,” Annual Writing Retreat, Association of Black Women in Higher Education Los Angeles Chapter (ABWHE), Malibu, CA. 

  • Carr, J. (March 2011). “Teaching Students to Crash: Film and Transformative Learning,” 23rd Annual Lilly National Conference on College and University Teaching (International Alliance of Teacher Scholars), Pomona, CA. 

  • Carr, J. (March 2011). “Missy Elliot: Transcending Conventional Hip Hop Aesthetics and Industry Norms,” 35th Annual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), Cincinnati, OH.  

  • Carr, J. (September 2010). Live Radio Interview, “Beautiful Struggle: Black Women in Higher Education,” KPFK Radio (90.7 FM), North Hollywood, CA. 

Multicultural Theatre Project: Conference Papers

  • Carr, J. (September 2011). “Encountering Texts: Theatre and Transformative Learning,” 13th Annual Lilly International Conference on College and University Teaching, Traverse City, MI. 
  • Carr, J. (June 2010). “The Multicultural Theatre Project, Pedagogy, and Student Retention,” 23rd Annual National Conference on Race and Ethnicity in American Higher Education (NCORE), Harbor, MD. 
  • Carr, J. (April 2010). “Encountering Texts: The Multicultural Theatre Project and ‘Minority’ Literature.” 24th Annual Conference, The Society for the Study of the Multi-Ethnic Literature of the United States (MELUS), Scranton, PA. 
  • Carr, J. (March 2010). “The Multicultural Theatre Project,” 34thAnnual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), New Orleans, LA. 
  • Carr, J. (March 2010). “Encountering Texts: The Multicultural Theatre Project and Pedagogy,” 22nd Annual Lilly National Conference on College Teaching (International Alliance of Teacher Scholars), Pomona, CA. 
  • Carr, J. and Jolivet Jones, T. (March 2009). “The Multicultural Theatre Project: Forging Partnerships that Help Students Critically Engage Issues of Diversity,” NASPA Annual International Conference (student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education), Seattle, WA. 

Professional Conference Service

  • June 2019. Session Chair, “Pursuing Wisdom: Cultural Mythos and Narrative Film,” Christian Scholars Conference, Lipscomb University. Nashville, TN.
  • June 2018. Session Chair, “21st Century Identity Politics and American Sci-Fi/Fantasy Films,” Christian Scholars Conference, Lipscomb University. Nashville, TN.
  • June 2018. Session Chair, “Get Busy Living or Get Busy,” Christian Scholars Conference, Lipscomb University. Nashville, TN.
  • June 2017. Session Chair, “Beyond The 13th: From Slavery to Mass Incarceration to American Exceptionalism,” Christian Scholars Conference, Lipscomb University. Nashville, TN.
  • June 2017. Moderator, Screening Ava DuVernay’s 13th, Christian Scholars Conference, Lipscomb University. Nashville, TN.
  • Spring 2017. Session Convener, “Beyond the 13th: From Slavery to Mass Incarceration to American Exceptionalism,” Christian Scholars Conference, Lipscomb University. Nashville, TN.
  • March 2016. Session Chair, “Mediating Masculinity,” 40th Annual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), Charlotte, NC.  
  • March 2016. Session Chair, “Intersections of Race and The Media,” 40th Annual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), Charlotte, NC.  
  • October 2015. SAG-AFTRA Women’s National Committee Representative, “Action Icon Awards: Stunt Women in Hollywood Films,” Sponsored by SAG-AFTRA, Sheraton at Universal, Los Angeles, CA. 
  • September 2015. National Delegate, SAG-AFTRA National Convention, Screen Actors Guild (SAG) and American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA), Los Angeles, CA.
  • March 2015. Session Moderator, “Preparing Students for Intercultural Competency,” Christians on Diversity in the Academy (CDA) Conference, Claremont, CA.
  • March 2015. Session Chair, “Black Masculinity and Cinema,” 39th Annual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), Los Angeles, CA.  
  • 2015. Chair, Abstract Review Committee, Socio-Political Contexts of Language and Culture, Christians on Diversity in the Academy (CDA) Conference, Claremont, CA.
  • December 2014. Abstract Reviewer, “Evidence-Based Teaching and Learning,” Lilly International Conference on College and University Teaching and Learning 2015, Bethesda, MD.
  • November 2014. Session Chair, Women and Film (Special Conference Session), 112th Annual Conference of the Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Association (PAMLA), San Diego, CA.
  • October 2014. Abstract Reviewer, 27th Annual Lilly National Conference on College and University Teaching (International Alliance of Teacher Scholars). Pomona, CA.
  • October 2014. Abstract Reviewer, “Illuminating Ideas,” Southern California Conferences for Undergraduate Research (SCCUR), Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA. 
  • January 2014. Event Host, SAG Awards, Regal Cinema Screening, Hollywood/Los Angeles SAG-AFTRA Host Committee, Screen Actors Guild (SAG) and American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA), Hollywood Division, Los Angeles, CA. 
  • December 2013. Event Host, Union Membership Holiday Event, Hollywood/Los Angeles  SAG-AFTRA Host Committee, Screen Actors Guild (SAG) and American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA), Hollywood Division, Los Angeles, CA
  • December 2013. Planning Committee Member and Abstract Review, Christians on Diversity in the Academy Conference, March 2014, Azusa Pacific University
  • October 2013. Presiding Officer and Session Chair, Women and Film (Special Conference Session), 111th Annual Conference of the Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Association (PAMLA), San Diego, CA.
  • October 2013. Presiding Officer and Session Chair, 21st Century Student and 21st Century Teacher, University Diversity Council, Pepperdine University Faculty/Leadership Conference, Office of the Provost
  • October 2013. Program Chair, “Write Right!,” Annual Writing Retreat, National Conference for the Association of Black Women in Higher Education Los Angeles Chapter (ABWHE), Malibu, CA.
  • September 2013. National Delegate, “United for the Future,” SAG-AFTRA National Convention, Screen Actors Guild (SAG) and American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA), Los Angeles, CA. 
  • March 2013. Session Chair, “Radical Black Women’s Tradition in Diaspora Literature,” 37th Annual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), Indianapolis, IN.  
  • March 2013. Session Chair, “Education and Black Children in America,” 37th Annual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), Indianapolis, IN.  
  • 2013. Presiding Officer and Abstract Reviewer, Women and Film (Special Conference Session), 111th Annual Conference of the Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Association (PAMLA), San Diego, CA.
  • 2012-present. Reviewer, Journal of Black Studies, SAGE Publications
  • October 2012. Abstract Reviewer, 24th Annual Lilly National Conference on College and University Teaching, International Alliance of Teacher Scholars, Pomona, CA. 
  • October 2012. Session Chair, Film and Literature (Standing Conference Session), 110th Annual Conference of the Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Association (PAMLA), Seattle, WA.
  • April 2012. Conference Facilitator and Program Chair, “Voice: Writing Out Loud in Academia,” Annual Writing Retreat, National Conference for the Association of Black Women in Higher Education Los Angeles Chapter (ABWHE), hosted by Pepperdine University Humanities and Teacher Education Division, Culver City, CA. 
  • March 2012. Panel Moderator, Miss Representation Screen Actors Guild Distinguished Panel, with Regina King and Lisa Vidal, Screen Actors Guild National Women’s Committee and Women in Film, SAG Hollywood, Los Angeles, CA. 
  • March 2012. Session Chair, “Beauty, Identity and Blackness,” 36th Annual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), Atlanta, GA.  
  • March 2012. Session Chair, “The African Diaspora and Literature,” 36th Annual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), Atlanta, GA.  
  • 2012. Presiding Officer and Abstract Reviewer, Film and Literature (Standing Conference Session), 110th Annual Conference of the Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Association (PAMLA), Seattle, WA.
  • January 2012. Conference Facilitator and Program Chair, “Insider Information: Succeeding in Graduate School,” Mentoring Workshop, National Conference for the Association of Black Women in Higher Education Los Angeles Chapter (ABWHE), Culver City, CA.
  • November 2011. Session Chair, Literature and the Other Arts (Standing Conference Session), 109th Annual Conference of the Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Association (PAMLA), Claremont, CA. 
  • October 2011. Abstract Reviewer, “Ascending the Summit of Discovery,” Southern California Conferences for Undergraduate Research (SCCUR), Mt. San Antonio College, Walnut, CA. 
  • June 2011. Screen Actors Guild EEO National Committee Representative, “Representing the American Scene” Roundtable with Ilene Chaiken (Writer/Producer), Produced by Conference Producers Guild of America (PGA) and ABC Entertainment, Disney Studios, Burbank, CA. 
  • June 2011. Screen Actors Guild EEO National Committee Representative, “Disability = Diversity” Roundtable with Janis Hirsch (Writer), Produced by Conference Producers Guild of America (PGA) and ABC Entertainment, Disney Studios, Burbank, CA. 
  • 2011. Presiding Officer and Abstract Reviewer, Literature and the Other Arts (Standing Conference Session), 109th Annual Conference of the Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Association (PAMLA), Claremont, CA. 
  • April 2011. Conference Facilitator and Program Chair, “Creating Your Own Narrative,” Annual Writing Retreat, Association of Black Women in Higher Education Los Angeles Chapter (ABWHE) hosted by Pepperdine University Humanities and Teacher Education Division, Malibu, CA. 
  • March 2011. Session Chair, “Is there any Debate about a ‘Post-Racial’ America?” 36th Annual National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), Cincinnati, OH. 
  • October 2010. Abstract Reviewer, “Riding the Crest of Discovery,” Southern California Conferences for Undergraduate Research (SCCUR), Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA. 
  • March 2010. Session Chair, “Against Feminism: The Gender Question and Africana Womanism,” 34th Annual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), New Orleans, LA. 
  • March 2010. Session Chair, “Transnational Black Experience,” 34th Annual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), New Orleans, LA. 
  • March 2010. Session Chair, “Controlling Images: Race and the Depiction of Black People in the Media,” 34th Annual Conference, National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), New Orleans. LA. 
  • March 2006. Session Chair, “Innovative Pedagogy,” Western Regional Conference on Christianity (CCL), Malibu, CA.  
  • 2019-2020. Seaver College, Course Release Award, Office of the Dean, Pepperdine University.
  • Spring 2019. Pepperdine University Waves of Innovation Grant ($100,000), with Nelson Granados, Theresa De Los Santos, John Mooney, and Maureen Weston, Executive Board for the Institute for Entertainment, Media, Sports, and Culture (IMESC). 
  • 2018-2019. Project Director. California Humanities, Humanities For All Quick Grant ($5,000), Project: “SoCal Summit on Black Masculinity,” November 2018, Culver City, CA.
  • 2018-2019. Diversity and Inclusion Excellence Course Grant($5,000), Office of the Dean, Seaver College. 
  • Fall 2019. Academic Year Undergraduate Research Initiative (AYURI), Office of the Dean, Seaver College, Pepperdine University.
  • Fall 2018. Faculty/Student Mentor Program Award, Office of the Dean, Seaver College, Pepperdine University. 
  • Fall 2018. Academic Year Undergraduate Research Initiative (AYURI), Office of the Dean, Seaver College, Pepperdine University.
  • Fall 2017. Academic Year Undergraduate Research Initiative (AYURI), Office of the Dean, Seaver College, Pepperdine University. 
  • 2016. Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP), Office of the Dean, Seaver College, Pepperdine University. 
  • Spring 2016. Academic Year Undergraduate Research Initiative (AYURI), Office of the Dean, Seaver College, Pepperdine University.
  • 2015- 2016. Leadership Development Program, Office of the Provost, Pepperdine University. 
  • 2015- 2016. Seaver Research Council Grant (SRC), Office of the Dean, Seaver College, Pepperdine University. 
  • Fall 2015. Faculty/Student Mentor Program Award, Office of the Dean, Seaver College, Pepperdine University. 
  • Spring 2015. Faculty/Student Mentor Program Award, Office of the Dean, Seaver College, Pepperdine University. 
  • Fall 2015. Academic Year Undergraduate Research Initiative (AYURI), Office of the Dean, Seaver College, Pepperdine University.
  • Spring 2015. Academic Year Undergraduate Research Initiative (AYURI), Office of the Dean, Seaver College, Pepperdine University.
  • 2015. Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP), Office of the Dean, Seaver College, Pepperdine University. 
  • Fall 2014. Faculty/Student Mentor Program Award, Office of the Dean, Seaver College, Pepperdine University. 
  • Fall 2014. Academic Year Undergraduate Research Initiative (AYURI), Office of the Dean, Seaver College, Pepperdine University.
  • Spring 2014. Dean's Research Grant (DRG), Office of the Dean, Seaver College, Pepperdine University.
  • Spring 2014. Academic Year Undergraduate Research Initiative (AYURI), Office of the Dean, Seaver College, Pepperdine University.
  • 2013-2014. Seaver Research Council Grant (SRC), Office of the Dean, Seaver College, Pepperdine University. 
  • 2014. Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP), Office of the Dean, Seaver College, Pepperdine University.
  • Fall 2013. Academic Year Undergraduate Research Initiative (AYURI), Office of the Dean, Seaver College, Pepperdine University.
  • 2013. Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP), Office of the Dean, Seaver College, Pepperdine University
  • 2012-2013. Seaver Research Council Grant (SRC), Office of the Dean, Seaver College, Pepperdine University.

Topics

  • African American Studies: Literature and Film
  • Arts-based Critical Pedagogy
  • Black Women and Vocation
  • Christianity/Religion and Literature
  • John Singleton and Black Masculinity/Black Male Studies
  • Music and Text: African American Literature
  • Ralph Ellison and Theomusicology
  • Religion and the Arts
  • Toni Morrison 
  • Women and Film 

Courses

Film Course Offerings
  • African American Cinema 
  • The Auteur 
  • Film and Culture 
  • Film Genres: Science Fiction/Fantasy 
  • Internship in Film
  • Introduction to Film 
  • Literature and Film  
  • Italian Cinema from Neorealism to Present 
  • Senior Thesis Projects in Film  
  • Transnational Cinemas 
  • Women and Film 
  • World Cinemas 
English Course Offerings
  • American Literature after the Civil War 
  • Black Women Writers 
  • Composition: Thinking Critically about Culture
  • Imagining Self and Nation
  • Multicultural Women Writers 
  • Multicultural Literature and Theory 
  • Music and Text: African American Literature 
  • Senior Seminar in English 
  • World Literatures 
Other Course Offerings