Harvard Welcomes Drag Queen LaWhore Vagistan as New Visiting Professor

Harvard University Welcomes Drag Performer as Visiting Professor for Innovative Course

Harvard University Embraces Diversity with New Drag Professor

In an exciting development this summer, Harvard University announced the appointment of a new visiting professor, Kareem Khubchandani, known for his dynamic drag persona, LaWhore Vagistan. Khubchandani, who will teach at the Ivy League institution starting this fall, is joining Harvard under the auspices of the Harvard Gender and Sexuality Caucus. As a professor of Theater, Dance, and Performance Studies from Tufts University, Khubchandani brings a unique and vibrant approach to the Studies of Gender and Sexuality program.

Courses Focused on Gender, Sexuality, and Drag Performance

Khubchandani will impart his knowledge in two engaging courses over the next two semesters. This fall, he will lead a class titled “Queer Ethnography,” exploring the multidimensional aspects of queer culture. In the spring semester, he is set to teach “RuPaulitics: Drag, Race, and Desire,” a course intricately connected to the popular television show “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” This specialized class aims to delve into the cultural and political themes portrayed in the show, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of drag and its societal impact.

Integrating Drag Persona into Academia

Khubchandani’s teaching approach is notably interdisciplinary, often incorporating his drag persona, LaWhore Vagistan, into lectures. This persona has played a pivotal role in his educational methodology for over a decade. As he explains, the name “LaWhore Vagistan” is inspired by a play on geographical and cultural identity, particularly linked to his family’s origins in Lahore, Pakistan. Through humor and cultural commentary, Khubchandani offers students an engaging and insightful classroom experience.

Background and Publications

Beyond the classroom, Khubchandani is a well-published author. His works include “Decolonizer Drag” and “Ishstyle: Accenting Gay Indian Nightlife.” This fall, he debuts his latest book, “Lessons in Drag: A Queer Manual for Academics, Artists, and Aunties,” further solidifying his influence in queer studies and performance arts.

Harvard’s Expansion in Educational Offerings

This development comes amid Harvard’s broader expansion initiatives, following a recent agreement with the U.S. government. After President Trump unfroze $2.4 billion in federal grants, Harvard consented to operate a new series of trade schools, thus diversifying its educational portfolio. The trade school initiative is expected to complement Harvard’s existing academic landscape, offering new vocational opportunities alongside traditional scholarly programs.

Harvard University could not immediately be reached for further comments on these developments. Stay connected with Emegypt for the latest updates on higher education innovations and academic discourse.