Dr. Patel’s research explores the various, often contradictory ways in which so-called magic was used to advance a number of theological ends in early Christian texts. Rather than seeing magic solely as a way to malign the rituals and traditions of those external to formative Christianity, she aims to show that magic could be used for a variety of things, from enforcing social cohesion among budding communities, to generating conversion, to correcting the views of other Christian writers. 

Alumni Achievement Award Winner

Each year at the Blake Lecture, we present the VCU History Graduate Alumni Achievement Award. The award recognizes an alumnus of the M.A. program who has made distinguished contributions to their profession or chosen field of endeavor, and represents the department's highest form of recognition bestowed exclusively on graduate alumni. Prior to the start of the lecture we will present the 7th annual award to our recipient.