Fitchburg State University Associate Professor of English Studies Katharine Covino was recently awarded the Edward B. Fry Book Award for “The Intersections of Critical Pedagogy, Critical Literacy, and Social Justice: Toward Empowerment, Equity, and Education for Liberation” at the Literacy Research Association's annual conference in Las Vegas.
“It feels very significant to win the award, and it’s also very humbling,” said Covino, who co-edited and co-authored the book with Dr. Cara Mulcahy from Central Connecticut State University. “When you look at the list of past finalists and winners of the award, you can see some of the heaviest hitters in the field of literacy research. Rebecca Rogers, P. David Pearson, Elizabeth Birr Moje, Randy Bomer, and Peter Smagorinsky – these are people who I encountered in graduate school and whose writing I continue to use in my courses to this day. Yolanda Sealey-Ruiz, a more recent winner, is a prolific and important writer and speaker. These people are literally giants. To be nominated in the same category, and then to have our book win, is just so exciting. I think it speaks to the necessity of the work– the critical importance of social justice, empowerment, and equity – especially amidst this charged sociopolitical moment.”
The award is named after Edward B. Fry, a pioneer focused on readability formulas and foundational literacy. The award aims to recognize Literacy Research Association members who author a book on literacy research and practice. The first award was presented in 1995.
Published by Lexington Books in January 2024, The Intersections of Critical Pedagogy, Critical Literacy, and Social Justice: Toward Empowerment, Equity, and Education for Liberation, offers a rich collection of voices, viewpoints, and perspectives that sheds light on the differing and prismatic experiences of literacy educators and researchers engaged with critical literacy and critical pedagogy in multi-linguistic and multicultural environments.
“As co-editors, we sought to curate distinct yet complementary chapters that advance the study, inquiry, and practice of critical literacy and critical pedagogy through a rigorous unpacking of curricula, courses, programs, and professional learning spaces in which educators operate,” said Covino. “This book offers clear yet adaptable pathways forward, and models empowering practices for teacher educators, classroom teachers, and students at all levels.”
Covino said that the book is the work of years of collaboration.
“We share this award with all educators who fight tirelessly for what is right, even when it is hard, who resist limiting mandates and curricula, and who continue to strive for equity and social justice in the face of broken systems,” said Covino. “We thank you for the risks you take every day in service to our children.”