Dr. Laurie Hatch

Associate Professor of English

Early in her career, Dr. Hatch was delighted to learn that she could combine her interests in science and religion with her love of literature.  Her research into the development of physiological optics in the 19th century allowed her to explore issues of perception in the poetry of Roman Catholic poet Gerard Manley Hopkins.  Fascinated by how knowledge is developed, and truth is confirmed in a variety of disciplines, Dr. Hatch is passionate about introducing students to how literature allows new ideas in all areas to be explored through the medium of story. During her graduate studies, Dr. Hatch also taught courses in writing and the English language to students from many different countries.  After this experience, she has become even more convinced that writing is an important tool in clarifying thought, critically processing ideas, and communicating across borders and cultures. After teaching at several Christian higher education institutions, Dr. Hatch is pleased to call Vanguard her home.  She is happily married with two sons, two cats, and one snake (she isn’t particularly happy about the snake).