Ted Mason arrived at Kenyon’s Department of English in 1989 with an expertise in African-American literature, culture and literary theory, and three years later he became the first Black faculty member to gain tenure at the College. Since then, his duties have broadened, bringing with them a number of titles: associate provost for diversity, equity and inclusion; special advisor to the president; and professor of English. These days, he helps coordinate the College’s efforts toward greater equity and inclusion across Kenyon’s administrative divisions and also helps to ensure that faculty searches run as they should.
Besides Gambier, where is your favorite place in the world to be?
That’s a tough one. Right now it’s Columbus, hanging out with our son, daughter, son-in-law, and nearly 3-year old granddaughter.
Why did you come to Kenyon?
I was interested in continuing to work at small liberal arts college English departments, and I really liked the faculty and students here.
Fill in the blank: My experience at Kenyon would not be the same without ______.
The ability to work with very capable and interesting students and colleagues on the faculty and staff. (And a special shout out to the crew at Bailey House.)
What is your favorite Kenyon tradition?
Commencement, by far, whether outside or in the Lowry Center. It is just so great to see the families enjoy the success of their students.
What Kenyon class would you love to take — again or for the first time?
Any of the history courses taught by Professor Glenn McNair. I have read some of the material on his syllabi and always find myself illuminated by his perspective.
If there was a soundtrack to your Kenyon experience, what song would be on repeat?
Probably Miles Davis’ “So What” or Yellowjackets’ “Downtown.”
Where do you find satisfaction outside of your work?
I really like reading, listening to music, and being with my family. Those things and getting lost in exercise — a time away from everything else.
What is something interesting that you have read recently?
I’m working my way through Timothy Snyder’s “On Freedom” (absolutely riveting, brilliant, and also scary). And Percival Everett’s “James” (also riveting and brilliant, but funny in a dark way). (Shout out to CSAD, which brought Snyder to campus in October, and the John Adams Colloquium, which will feature a common reading of “James” on campus starting April 1!)
What new skill would you like to learn?
It’s not a new skill, but I’d like to improve my cooking. I’m a rank amateur. And I cannot bake to save my life.
What is the best piece of advice that you've ever been given?
From my father: “Play out of your own bag.” He was an exceptional golfer, so this advice was about taking care of your own business, before you worried about other people’s business.
The Kenyon Ten is an occasional question-and-answer feature that highlights students, faculty and staff.