David Porter
Professor of English Language and Literature, Professor of Comparative Literature and Director Academic Program, Comparative Literature, College Literature, Science, and the Arts
David Porter has seen a shift in his research interests over the years. He is now particularly fascinated by the impact of meaningful stories on the world and how communities use stories to build a sense of connection with a place. With 27 years of service at the university, Porter has been instrumental in establishing the Detroit River Story Lab, an interdisciplinary research and education initiative that harnesses university resources to support community-based narrative infrastructure projects along the river. Collaborating with colleagues, Porter aims to foster a coalition of local educators, youth group organizers, and nonprofit leaders who recognize the potential of the Detroit River as a living classroom, a source of inspiration, empowerment, and healing.
Projects funded
