Profile of Tressie McMillan Cottom: Respected Sociologist and Opinion Columnist

In 2022, Tressie McMillan Cottom took on the role of an Opinion columnist at The New York Times, bringing her expertise as a sociologist, professor, and cultural critic to a wider audience. Renowned for her sharp essays addressing social issues, she has authored two influential books: “Lower Ed: The Troubling Rise of For-Profit Colleges in the New Economy” and “Thick: And Other Essays.” Notably, her second book was a finalist for the National Book Award in the nonfiction category in 2019.

Dr. McMillan Cottom’s newsletter for The New York Times explores diverse topics such as sartorial politics, scam culture, and representations of social change within popular culture. She is a regular contributor to discussions on higher education, work, media, and inequality, engaging with audiences on platforms such as The Daily Show, Fresh Air, The Atlantic, and The Washington Post.

In 2020, she was honored with a MacArthur “genius” grant, recognizing her contribution to society through her work. Currently, she is working on an essay collection and a memoir, continuing to share her insights and experiences with readers. Dr. McMillan Cottom resides in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, in the company of her extended family and her dog, Kirby.

Recent Opinion Pieces

In recent discussions, Dr. McMillan Cottom has contributed to insights on the changing dynamics surrounding plastic surgery and cosmetic fillers through a collaborative piece with Meher Ahmad, Jessica Grose, and Vishakha Darbha, highlighting how these practices are increasingly accepted and less stigmatized.

Another thought-provoking piece, co-authored with Jamelle Bouie, David French, and Derek Arthur, examines the significant impact of the Southern region on national politics, arguing there would be no Trump phenomenon without the South’s unique role.

Most recently, in an article titled “Mourn, or Else,” she offers her perspective on the genuine nature of some of Donald Trump’s rhetoric, noting that while he regularly makes statements he does not support, this time his threats seem substantial.