Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence Oonya Kempadoo arrived at NVCC this month to teach Caribbean Literature/Creative Writing this semester.

A native of Grenada, Kempadoo said she hopes to offer a quality teaching experience and an inter-disciplinary, student and faculty exchange.

“Students can expect self-discovery through my course this semester,” Kempadoo said. “They’ll do this through writing, reading and sharing responses, and exploring what colors our own perspectives and voices. And hopefully, they’ll gain much insight into Caribbean literature and culture.”

Kempadoo’s new book, “All Decent Animals,” was listed number six on Oprah Winfrey’s 2013 summer reading list. The novel examines personal aesthetic choices and the island of Trinidad, touching upon conflicting cultures and creativity as Trinidad aims at ‘world class’ status amidst its poorer island cousins.

“All Decent Animals” and her other books, “Buxton Spice,” and “Tide Running” are used in several universities in the US, UK, Canada and the Caribbean. 

Kempadoo said she’s enjoyed meeting her new NVCC family, as well as members of the Waterbury community, viewing her move as a great opportunity for professional growth.

“This is a welcome expansion from my independent writing and island-life activities,” said Kempadoo. The multi-cultural and diverse population of NVCC and Waterbury adds interesting layers to explore.”

Last year, NVCC’s first Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence Pascal Meccariello, of the Dominican Republic, enriched the College by teaching Ceramics and Caribbean Art and Culture.

Kempadoo is one of approximately 800 outstanding foreign faculty and professionals who will teach and/or research in the United States through the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program in 2013-2014. The Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence Program brings scholars and professionals from abroad to U.S. colleges and universities to significantly internationalize campuses and curricula.