Two U-M professors have been appointed University Diversity and Social Transformation Professors for their exceptional contributions to diversity, equity and inclusion through research, teaching and service.
The Board of Regents approved the appointments July 18 for Ron Eglash, professor of information in the School of Information, and professor of art and design in the Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design; and Isis Settles, professor of psychology, of Afroamerican and African studies, and of women’s and gender studies, and associate dean for diversity, equity and inclusion in LSA.
Their appointments will take effect Aug. 26.
“In working at the crossroads of STEM, indigeneity, well-being and social justice, these UDSTP appointees have given us new ways of seeing the world with an eye toward making tangible impact,” said Laurie K. McCauley, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs.
“It is inspiring to see the breadth of contexts across which each of these scholars is practicing our values. Both professors are known for innovative, multidisciplinary, and inclusive approaches that truly honor the spirit of this appointment.”
The professorship is sponsored by the Office of the Provost and jointly administered by the National Center for Institutional Diversity and the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Eglash and Settles join 33 senior faculty members who have been appointed to the professorship since it was established in 2019.
The two recipients were nominated by the deans of their schools or colleges and recommended to the provost by a faculty committee.
“This year’s appointments exemplify the profound impact that sustained and dedicated scholarship, mentorship and community engagement can have on fostering an inclusive academic environment,” said Tabbye Chavous, vice provost for equity and inclusion, and chief diversity officer.
“Their work not only advances their respective fields but also demonstrates the transformative impact of diversity, equity and inclusion work on our nation and world. Their tireless efforts in research, teaching and service contribute significantly to the university’s mission to cultivate an inclusive and intellectual community.”
Eglash and Settles will retain the title throughout their appointment at U-M and will receive an annual stipend of $20,000 for their first five years as a UDSTP to support their scholarly and professional work. They also will receive special faculty fellow status at the NCID and will spend at least one semester as a faculty fellow-in-residence.
“Recognizing the outstanding contributions of these faculty members underscores the university’s dedication to fostering positive social change and academic excellence,” said Elizabeth R. Cole, director of the NCID.
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Cole said this year’s UDSTPs, through their innovative approaches and collaborative efforts, are not only shaping their disciplines but are helping to create a more inclusive future.
Eglashhas built a distinguished career as a scholar at the intersection of design, decolonization and technology.
Through his work he has created a new portrait of African cultures, specifically that they are not later than other cultures in incorporating science, technology, engineering and math understandings, but rather that they were among the first to create a shared design theme of fractal geometry.
Settles is a distinguished psychologist whose research addresses topics central to DEI in academia, including workplace climate, discrimination, wellbeing and the challenges faced by members of underrepresented groups, especially in STEM fields.
Her research also explores the dynamics of gender in male-dominated environments, with a focus on women in STEM.
