Lexington Poet Defies the Odds to Become USC Professor and Governor’s Award Recipient
Ray McManus, a native of Lexington, South Carolina, has defied expectations and overcome a challenging past to become a celebrated poet, professor, and academic leader at the University of South Carolina. Despite being labeled as “not college material” by his high school guidance counselor and acknowledging his own rebellious teenage years, McManus has since earned three degrees from USC, including an MFA in creative writing and a Ph.D. in English.
From Knucklehead to Scholar
McManus, once self-identified as a “knucklehead,” spent his youth engaging in activities far removed from academia, such as bush hogging and cleaning chicken coops. However, a chance encounter with a poetry textbook during in-school suspension sparked his interest in literature and set him on a path of self-discovery and transformation.
Despite facing doubts from others, including his high school counselor, McManus was determined to challenge himself and pursue a college education. His journey began at a technical college before transferring to USC, where he found a passion for teaching and poetry.
Embracing Poetry and Community
Under the mentorship of USC professors Carolyn Matalene and Ed Madden, McManus honed his writing skills and discovered the power of poetry as a tool for self-expression and connection. Through his work, he explores themes of identity, community, and the cultural influences of his Southern upbringing.
McManus’ upcoming collection, “The Last Saturday in America,” delves into the complexities of masculinity and societal shifts, reflecting on the turbulent events of recent years. Despite grappling with dark themes, the poet emphasizes the importance of connection and empathy in his work.
A Call to Dare
As a poet and educator, McManus advocates for the accessibility of poetry to all individuals, emphasizing its value in personal growth and understanding the world. He encourages others to “dare themselves to try” poetry, highlighting the transformative potential of engaging with the written word.
Through his journey from a rebellious teenager to a respected poet and professor, Ray McManus exemplifies the power of resilience, self-discovery, and the pursuit of education against all odds.
