Houle becomes FMU’s newest Trustee Research Scholar

Dr. Landon Houle is Francis Marion’s newest Board of Trustees’ Research Scholar. 

Houle, an associate professor of English and creative writing at Francis Marion, was presented with the award during a luncheon at Ervin Dining Hall on FMU’s campus Tuesday afternoon.

The Board of Trustees’ Research Scholars program was formed in 2002 and is designed to recognize and promote high-level research and scholarship by university faculty. Appointments are awarded to senior faculty members who have compiled a significant record of research and publication, and who show promise of continued scholarly productivity.

The appointment is for three years, is renewable, and includes a reduced teaching load with a salary supplement.

FMU President Fred Carter, who presented Houle with the award, praised her teaching and research effusively.

“Landon is so very deserving of this recognition. She is an exceptional scholar in every sense of the word, and her students absolutely adore her,” Carter said. “She is also one of the finest writers in this state and one of the most promising young novelists in the South. We are so fortunate to have her at Francis Marion.”

Houle joined the FMU faculty in 2017, bringing with her an extensive background in journalism, copy editing and English instruction. In addition to many literary reviews, Houle has authored acclaimed fiction novels, short stories and essays. Some of her most noteworthy accolades include a Red Hen Press Fiction Award, a Dogwood Fiction Prize, and first place in Black Warrior Review’s Nonfiction Contest, judged by Kiese Laymon.

Houle earned her Bachelor’s degree in English from Sul Ross State University in Alpine, Texas, where she also received a Master’s degree in English and creative writing. She earned her PhD in English from Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas.