Faisal Mohyuddin ’00 illuminates the world with his work as an influential poet, educator, visual artist, and advocate for cultural understanding, making significant impacts both in literature and education.
After graduating from Carleton, Mohyuddin pursued a career that blends artistic expression with educational leadership. His literary achievements include the publication of acclaimed poetry collections such as The Riddle of Longing, The Displaced Children of Displaced Children, and Elsewhere: An Elegy. His work has garnered numerous awards, including the 2017 Sexton Prize in Poetry and an Honorable Mention in the Association of Asian American Studies 2020 Book Award for Poetry.
Mohyuddin’s contributions to education are equally profound. He has been instrumental in bringing global perspectives to his students, notably through his involvement with the U.S. Department of State’s Fulbright Teachers for Global Classrooms program and his role as an educator adviser and master practitioner for Narrative 4, a global nonprofit focused on building empathy through storytelling.
His approach to teaching, characterized by its innovative and inclusive nature, has inspired many. As a high school English teacher in suburban Chicago and a creative writing instructor at Northwestern University’s School of Professional Studies, he has touched the lives of countless students. His ability to connect with and inspire young minds was evident even during his time at Carleton, where he and his classmate-turned-friend-turned-best-friend Sachin Patel were chosen to deliver a commencement speech that resonated deeply with their peers.
Mohyuddin’s work extends beyond the classroom and the pages of his books. He is a truth-teller who uses his art to explore and illuminate the human experience, addressing themes of love, justice, grief, and faith. His commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding is a testament to his belief in the power of stories to bridge divides and connect people.