An experienced theatre and performance studies professor, Karima Robinson is a demonstrated expert in her field. Over a relatively short period, Robinson’s work, particularly in the areas of African theatre, African-American theatre, postcolonial Caribbean theatre, and American Dance Theater, has been commended for its high level of scholasticism and research.

Currently working as an Assistant Professor of Drama Studies at SUNY Purchase, Karima Robinson is continuing to actively pursue her research interests and pass on her wisdom to her students. Karima Robinson received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Africana Studies from the prestigious Wellesley College. During her time at Wellesley, Karima Robinson was active in drama as a member of the school’s Theatre Club. Additionally, as a young playwright and director, Robinson successfully staged a one-act play she had written, entitled “A Southern Gentleman.” Robinson also participated in the African-American student group Ethos, as editor of the organization’s literary magazine.

Upon graduating from Wellesley, Karima Robinson spent some time in Jamaica and Zimbabwe as a Thomas J. Watson Fellow, before eventually returning to study at Northwestern University in 1999. Receiving multiple fellowships and grants, Robinson took her studies abroad and began preparing materials for her thesis through active fieldwork in Jamaica. After compiling significant amounts of research in Jamaica, Karima Robinson returned to Northwestern in 2003 to work as a Graduate Research Assistant in the African American Studies Department.

In 2007, Karima Robinson successfully completed her dissertation and received her Ph.D. from Northwestern. Prior to this, Robinson began her work as an assistant professor at SUNY Purchase in 2005. In her time at Purchase, Karima Robinson has received numerous commendations, including a Greenwood Grant in 2006 and the Jr. Faculty Development Award in 2008.