The Academic and Editorial Career of Morgan
The trajectory of Morgan's professional life is defined by a deep commitment to English literature, higher education, and the evolution of literary publishing. From his early academic pursuits in the American South to his pioneering work in digital media, Morgan has left a significant mark on the landscape of contemporary letters.
Academic Foundations
Morgan's educational journey began at the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee, where he studied from 1964 to 1966. He later transitioned to the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, earning his Bachelor of Arts (BA) in 1968. To further his expertise, he pursued advanced studies at Stanford University, where he completed his PhD in 1972.
Professional Tenure at the University of Missouri
Following the completion of his doctorate, Morgan joined the faculty at the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri. He began his tenure as an assistant professor in 1972, progressing to the rank of associate professor in 1978. By 2019, he had attained the rank of professor of English.
Beyond his primary university role, Morgan expanded his teaching reach in 1977 by instructing students at the Moberly Area Junior College, which operates within a men's correctional facility. His expertise was also recognized on a national level when he served as a member of the literature panel for the National Endowment for the Arts from 1975 to 1979.
Leadership at The Missouri Review
Since 1980, Morgan has served as the editor-in-chief of The Missouri Review, a prestigious literary journal. His leadership extended to co-editing several notable volumes, including The Best of the Missouri Review (University of Missouri Press, 1991) and For Our Beloved Country: Diaries of Americans in War (Atlantic Monthly Press, 1993).
Morgan is also credited with a historic milestone in publishing. In the mid-1980s, he established TMR Online on a commercial site known as The Source. This achievement made The Missouri Review the first magazine in the world to maintain an online presence.
Visiting Appointments and Personal Life
Throughout his career, Morgan has shared his expertise as a visiting writer at several institutions, including the University of Texas, the University of Arkansas, and the Paris Writers Workshop.
Morgan currently resides in Columbia, Missouri, with his wife, Kristine, who is also a writer and teacher.
Key Facts
- PhD: Earned from Stanford University in 1972.
- Editorial Role: Editor-in-chief of The Missouri Review since 1980.
- Digital Pioneer: Created the world's first online magazine site via TMR Online in the mid-1980s.
- Public Service: Served on the National Endowment for the Arts literature panel (1975–1979).
- Academic Rank: Professor of English at the University of Missouri.
| Period/Year | Institution/Organization | Role/Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| 1968 | University of Arkansas | BA Degree |
| 1972 | Stanford University | PhD Degree |
| 1972–2019+ | University of Missouri | Professor of English |
| 1980–Present | The Missouri Review | Editor-in-Chief |
| Mid-1980s | TMR Online / The Source | First online magazine site |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did Morgan receive his doctoral degree?
Morgan received his PhD from Stanford University in 1972.
What is Morgan's connection to The Missouri Review?
Morgan has served as the editor-in-chief of The Missouri Review since 1980 and is also a professor of English at the University of Missouri.
How did Morgan contribute to the history of digital publishing?
In the mid-1980s, Morgan established TMR Online on The Source, making it the first magazine in the world to have an online site.
Which other institutions has Morgan taught at as a visiting writer?
He has been a visiting writer at the University of Texas, the University of Arkansas, and the Paris Writers Workshop.
Did Morgan hold any positions with national arts organizations?
Yes, he was a member of the literature panel for the National Endowment for the Arts from 1975 to 1979.