We Are Knox...

"There is nothing like the excitement of a good class discussion."

David Amor has taught courses on the media in the anthropology-sociology
department since 1987 and in the journalism department since its creation in
2004. His research centers on media and journalism, and the globalization of
mass media. He teaches courses in journalism and anthropology-sociology, and was co-director of the First Year Preceptorial Program at Knox. A graduate of the University of British Columbia, Amor earned an M.A. in history at Stanford University, and an M.A. in journalism at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

How would you describe academic life at Knox?
Academic life, from a professor's point of view, is incredibly rewarding. There is nothing like the excitement of a good class discussion, where students are wrapping their heads around complex ideas, figuring out what they think, playing off each others' insights and really making the material their own. Also, working with a student on a paper or an Honors project, suggesting possible new directions to investigate or ways to make a point more clearly. The whole point is to foster student engagement in learning, and in putting that learning to use.

What are the essential qualities of a Knox student?
There is no such thing as a typical Knox student. That said, the students who stand out in my mind over the years have combined a real intellectual curiosity with a strong sense of social justice. Oh, and they usually know how to have a good time, too.

What surprises you about Knox students?
I am constantly surprised by the breadth of interests of Knox students, how they'll be active in sports, play guitar or sing or be a great actor, and also juggle all that successfully with a challenging academic load.

Is there something about you that surprises your students?
You'd have to ask them.

Do you have any advice for students who are considering studying at Knox?
You want a college that will nurture you to grow to your full capacities and, when you do, won't turn out to have limits that constrain you. That's the promise behind "Freedom to Flourish."

What would you be if you weren't a professor?
Well, for many years, while teaching part-time, I also worked for Knox as a writer and editor, helping raise money through grants and editing our alumni magazine. If I weren't teaching, I'd be writing.

What are your interests and hobbies?
My most serious hobby is playing classical piano, followed by golf. (I'm too old for soccer or softball anymore.) I also write regularly for a community op-ed roundtable at the local daily newspaper, the Register-Mail.

What is your favorite thing about Galesburg?
Galesburg is a great place to call home. The ‘small city’ atmosphere is very sustaining, it has good arts institutions, and it’s quick and easy to get to Chicago for a ‘big city’ fix when you need it.

View David Amor's faculty page