Stephen Volz joined the Kenyon faculty in 2004. His general field of expertise is African history, with particular interest in Africa's global interactions, the role of religion in African societies and the region of Southern Africa. Prior to coming to Kenyon, he was a Peace Corps volunteer in Botswana and a high school social studies teacher in New York City.

Volz's research focuses on African cultural changes during the early colonial era, with numerous publications on the impact of Christianity in Tswana communities. He teaches a wide range of courses on various aspects of African history, including a survey course on African cities and seminars on women's history, South African apartheid, and connections between religion and politics. Volz is also actively involved with International Studies at Kenyon and served as director of the program during 2012–2015.

Areas of Expertise

Africa, colonialism, history of religion

Education

2006 — Doctor of Philosophy from Univ of Wisconsin-Madison

1999 — Master of Arts from Univ of Wisconsin-Madison

1989 — Master of Arts from Washington University

1985 — Bachelor of Arts from Valparaiso University

Courses Recently Taught