SUNY Empire Professor Thomas Mackey Awarded for Excellence in Literacy in a Digital Age Research

(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY - July 26, 2023) Professor of Arts and Media in the School of Arts and Humanities Thomas P. Mackey, Ph.D. has been recognized for his exceptional research in literacy in a digital age. His work, "Metaliteracy in a Connected World: Developing Learners as Producers," written in collaboration with Distinguished Librarian Emerita at the University at Albany Trudi E. Jacobson, has been honored with the 2024 Divergent Publication Award for Excellence in Literacy in a Digital Age Research.

The book was published in 2022 by ALA/Neal-Schuman, is based on the concept of metaliteracy, a framework for teaching and learning developed by Mackey and Jacobson. Together they have published four books as well as numerous articles and book chapters on metaliteracy and have been invited to keynote on this topic nationally and internationally.

Metaliteracy is an innovative model for engaging students in the responsible production and sharing of information in a connected world. The ethical dimension of this approach is vital for participating in digital environments mediated by emerging technologies. The concept is key to the digital arts courses taught by Professor Mackey at Empire State University such as Digital Storytelling, Information Design, and Ethics of Digital Art and Design.

“I am so honored to receive this award for our latest metaliteracy book. This is such a meaningful recognition of metaliteracy as a holistic approach to address the challenges and opportunities of today’s information environment. I especially appreciate the chance to engage with our students about these ideas at Empire State University,” Mackey said.

To learn more, visit Metaliteracy.org, Global Digital Stories, and tpmackey.com.

In addition to his research, Mackey is well-regarded for his mentorship and teaching in the field of digital media arts at the university. He has received numerous honors, including the Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Scholarship and Creative Activities, the Susan H. Turben Chair in Mentoring, and appointment as Extraordinary Professor at North-West University in South Africa.

The Divergent Publication Award for Excellence in Literacy in a Digital Age Research was established in 2016 by the Initiative for 21st Century Literacies Research. This esteemed award aims to acknowledge the exceptional work of educators and scholars who have dedicated their careers to the theoretical and practical study of 21st Century Literacies. By embracing unconventional pedagogies and research methodologies, these individuals have made significant contributions to the field. The award is championed by School Head & Watson Endowed Chair and Senior Director of Teacher Education Shelbie Witte, Ph.D. at Oklahoma State University.