We regularly spotlight members who are making waves in their departments, institutions, communities, or within AAR. If you would like to submit a member to be interviewed, please email communications@aarweb.org with the member’s name and a brief message on why they are a good candidate. Read more of our Member Spotlight interviews.
About Justin
Justin M. Smith, PhD (he/him), is Professor and Chair of the Biblical Studies, Theology, and Ministry Department at Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, CA. A native of Los Angeles, he has been shaped by his experiences growing up and living there for most of his life. His scholarship focuses on the New Testament and Gospel genre. His work with AAR has also allowed him to stay engaged with one of his lifelong passions, Hip-Hop, and to help cultivate its academic expression as co-chair of the Critical Approaches to Hip-Hop and Religion Unit.
What is your area of expertise or field of study?
My main area of expertise is Biblical Studies, especially the New Testament and Genre Studies. I also get to serve as co-chair of the Critical Approaches to Hip-Hop and Religion Section with Dr. Daniel White Hodge, which has been an incredible experience.
Why did you get involved with AAR, and how is your work aligned?
I first got connected with AAR through its partnership with SBL. My training is in Biblical Studies, but my early background was more broadly in religious studies, and AAR helps me keep a foot in both worlds. Hip-Hop has been a lifelong passion, so having a space at AAR where I can bring that together with my academic work has been really meaningful.
What is your favorite AAR member benefit, and how has it helped your career?
Networking and mentoring. But more than that, it’s about building and cultivating relationships. Whether through working with my co-chair and steering committee, connecting with AAR colleagues like Amy Defibaugh and Tiauna Lewis, or maintaining ties with mentors and friends, AAR has helped me sustain meaningful connections across my academic journey.
What is one piece of advice you’d give to a first-time Annual Meeting attendee?
Take it easy. It’s tempting to try to see and hear everything, but that can be overwhelming. Instead, be intentional: choose the sessions most meaningful to you and your work. Stick around after presentations, meet people, and consider getting involved in a steering committee. Focus on building genuine relationships rather than just collecting contacts.
What book is on your nightstand that you’re reading or intend to read in the future?
Three books are on my list: Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport; Dilla Time by Dan Charnas; and The Chronicles of DOOM: Unraveling Rap’s Masked Iconoclast by S. H. Fernando, Jr.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Most of my time outside work is spent with my two young kids (ages 7 and 5), which means a lot of activities, play, and energy! I also love relaxing with my wife, catching movies, listening to music, getting to the gym, and squeezing in little trips when we can.
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