Actor Joseph C. Phillips, widely recognized for his portrayal of Lt. Martin Kendall on “The Cosby Show,” is taking on a new role as a professor at Clark Atlanta University (CAU). In this position, Phillips will be sharing his passion for theater and communication studies with students.
Clark Atlanta University recently announced that Phillips will be joining the faculty in the School of Arts & Sciences, where he will teach theater and communication studies. This role will allow students to explore various aspects of theater while honing their oral and written communication skills.
“Joseph brings a wealth of awe-inspiring talent, meaningful engagement in the community, and a portfolio of informed, decisive commentary to the University,” said Dr. George T. French Jr., President of CAU.
“We anticipate that he will inspire independent thinking, civic responsibility, and a passion for interdisciplinary learning in our students—which aligns perfectly with our mantra to ‘lift our community by lifting our voices,’” Dr. French added.
Beyond acting, Phillips is an accomplished author, columnist, commentator, and speaker. He holds a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from New York University (NYU) and has earned fellowships with prestigious institutions such as the Centennial Institute at Colorado Christian College, the Claremont Institute, and the Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics at the University of Kansas.
Phillips has also contributed to academia by designing and writing curriculum at the University of Kansas, where he taught a course titled “Black Conservatism in America.” He is the author of “He Talk Like a White Boy.”
Phillips’ acting career spans television and film, including roles in the Netflix series “13 Reasons Why” and “General Hospital.” His film credits include “Strictly Business,” “Let’s Talk About Sex,” and “Midnight Blue.” On stage, Phillips has appeared in Broadway productions such as “Six Degrees of Separation” and “A Raisin in the Sun,” and he played the lead role in Toni Morrison’s play “Dreaming Emmett.”
