Who is Anne LaGatta from Jeopardy? College Professor’s Age, Job, Family & More
Anne LaGatta is a distinguished Art History scholar who currently serves as a Visiting Assistant Professor of Art History at Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio. Her academic focus centers on the art of ancient Greece and Rome, with particular emphasis on the early Roman imperial period. LaGatta’s specialization lies in the use of political rhetoric within Roman art, epigraphy, and historiography, making her a key figure in the study of visual and literary representations of Roman emperors.
Her current research investigates Emperor Tiberius’ strategic use of art and architecture to craft his public image and imperial identity. This exploration of the intersection between art, politics, and propaganda in ancient Rome reflects LaGatta’s deep interest in how rulers utilized visual culture to solidify their power and influence. Additionally, her scholarly work extends to the numismatic representations of women during the late Roman Republic, exploring how coins and other forms of visual culture portrayed women and their roles in Roman society.
Academic Background: Education from Prestigious Institutions
LaGatta’s educational journey is rooted in prestigious academic institutions. She earned her Ph.D. in Art History from the University of Southern California in 2024, following a Master of Arts in the same field from USC in 2019. Prior to her graduate studies, LaGatta completed her Bachelor of Arts in Art History at New York University in 2016. Her academic path reflects a consistent commitment to deepening her knowledge of Greco-Roman sculpture, Roman imperial portraiture, and the broader landscape of Roman political history.
Throughout her education, LaGatta developed a rigorous understanding of the artistic traditions and political structures of ancient Rome. Her expertise in both the visual arts and the political history of Rome has made her a respected voice in her field, especially in her analysis of how art shaped and reflected the imperial power structures of the time.
Professional Career: Teaching and Curatorial Roles
In addition to her role as a Visiting Assistant Professor at Kenyon College, LaGatta’s career includes a range of academic and curatorial positions. Before joining Kenyon, she taught as a Lecturer at Pomona College in 2022, sharing her expertise with students and contributing to the academic community. LaGatta also served as a teaching assistant at the University of Southern California from 2018 to 2020, where she supported professors in various courses related to art history and ancient studies.
Beyond her teaching experience, LaGatta has held internships and roles at renowned cultural institutions, including the Walters Museum of Art, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the American Academy in Rome. These positions allowed her to hone her curatorial and archaeological skills, working closely with historical artifacts and contributing to exhibitions that explore the rich cultural history of the ancient world.
A Diverse Professional Background and Personal Interests
LaGatta’s professional background is as varied as her academic pursuits. In addition to her work in academia and cultural institutions, she has also worked in service-oriented roles. Notably, she was a barista at Starbucks and an assistant cook at Tumbling River Ranch. These roles, while distinct from her academic work, reflect LaGatta’s ability to adapt and thrive in diverse professional environments, providing her with skills in customer service, teamwork, and time management.
Outside of her professional work, LaGatta is actively involved in academic and professional communities. She is a member of the Archaeological Institute of America and the Society for Classical Studies, where she contributes to the ongoing dialogue about the study of ancient cultures. LaGatta has also volunteered at the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, assisting with admissions and fostering public engagement with the museum’s collections.
Multilingual Expertise and Cultural Engagement
Fluent in French and German, LaGatta’s linguistic skills have further enhanced her ability to engage with primary sources in their original languages. This proficiency allows her to explore scholarly literature and ancient texts in greater depth, providing a more nuanced understanding of her research topics. LaGatta’s multilingual abilities also reflect her broader cultural engagement and her commitment to expanding her academic horizons beyond the English-speaking world.
Anne LaGatta’s Contribution to Art History and Ancient Studies
Anne LaGatta’s career as an Art History scholar is marked by her interdisciplinary approach, combining the study of visual culture, political history, and ancient art to explore the ways in which art has shaped and been shaped by imperial power. Her ongoing research on Emperor Tiberius’ public image through art and architecture continues to contribute to the broader understanding of Roman imperial propaganda and its enduring impact on political and visual culture.
As she continues her academic and teaching career, LaGatta is poised to remain a key figure in the study of Greco-Roman art, with her work influencing future generations of scholars and students. Her commitment to both the intellectual and practical aspects of art history ensures that Anne LaGatta’s influence will extend far beyond the classroom and into the world of classical studies.
