Esteemed University of Michigan faculty members are set to be recognized for their exemplary contributions to academia, with 34 individuals receiving prestigious awards this fall in teaching, mentoring, service, and scholarship. These distinguished faculty will be celebrated at the upcoming Faculty Awards Celebration on October 30.
Distinguished University Professorships
The Distinguished University Professorships, established by the Board of Regents in 1947, honor senior faculty for their outstanding scholarly or creative achievements, esteemed reputations, and exceptional teaching, mentoring, and service records. Those honored with this title consult their respective deans to name the professorship after a prominent figure in their field. This prestigious appointment is indefinite, and recipients are required to deliver an inaugural lecture within their first year of appointment. The honorees include:
Juan R. Cole
Richard P. Mitchell Distinguished University Professor of History; Richard P. Mitchell Collegiate Professor of History, LSA
Juan R. Cole has significantly impacted global perspectives on the Middle East and South Asia, utilizing scholarly depth and public engagement. His prolific work, including 21 books and a public blog “Informed Comment,” reaches millions annually, shaping global policy discussions. Cole has also led international studies centers at U-M and has been honored with lectureships and awards worldwide.
Christian Davenport
Charles Tilly Distinguished University Professor of Political Science; Mary Ann and Charles R. Walgreen Jr. Professor for the Study of Human Understanding, and professor of political science, LSA; professor of public policy, Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy; and faculty associate, Center for Political Studies, Institute for Social Research
Christian Davenport has transformed the study of political conflict and human rights with his rigorous research methodologies. Since joining U-M in 2012, his work has received over 12,000 citations, greatly influencing the understanding of topics such as state repression and the Black Panther Party. His contributions to academic discourse and public policy are widely recognized.
Kathryn M. Dominguez
Marina von Neumann Whitman Distinguished University Professor of Public Policy; associate dean for academic affairs, and professor of public policy, Gerald R Ford School of Public Policy; and professor of economics, LSA
Kathryn M. Dominguez is a leading economist whose insights have influenced monetary policy worldwide. Notably, her theory on sterilized exchange rate interventions remains a cornerstone in economic research. A nominee for the U.S. Federal Reserve Board, she has played key roles in advisory panels and has significantly shaped economic education through her leadership roles at U-M.
John Jonides
Edward E. Smith Distinguished University Professor of Psychology; Edward E. Smith Collegiate Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience, and professor of psychology, LSA; acting co-director, Magnetic Resonance Imaging Facility, and professor of radiology, Medical School
John Jonides is a pioneer in cognitive neuroscience, recognized for his contributions to understanding executive functions in the brain. His groundbreaking work has earned over 80,000 citations and numerous awards. At U-M, he co-founded the fMRI Laboratory and launched an influential neuroimaging training course.
Kenneth M. Langa
A. Regula Herzog Distinguished University Professor of Internal Medicine and Survey Research; Cyrus Sturgis Research Professor of Internal Medicine, professor of internal medicine, and research professor, Institute of Gerontology, Medical School; research professor, Survey Research Center, Institute for Social Research; and professor of health management and policy, School of Public Health
Kenneth M. Langa is an influential figure in the study of aging and dementia. As a leader in the Health and Retirement Study, he has propelled research on aging globally, securing major funding for this endeavor. Langa’s contributions to understanding cognitive decline and disparities in health have been recognized with numerous accolades.
Anna G. Stefanopoulou
Huei Peng Distinguished University Professor of Mechanical Engineering; William Clay Ford Professor of Technology, and professor of mechanical engineering, College of Engineering
Anna Stefanopoulou is a notable innovator in powertrain engineering, known for her work in energy systems control. Her research has pushed the boundaries of mobility innovation, influencing both academic and industry practices. As a mentor and educator, she has positioned U-M as a global leader in powertrain research.
Distinguished Faculty Achievement Awards
The Distinguished Faculty Achievement Awards recognize senior faculty for exceptional achievements across scholarly research, teaching, and service. Honorees include:
David Blaauw
Kensall D. Wise Collegiate Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, College of Engineering
David Blaauw is recognized for his groundbreaking work in integrated circuit design, particularly in energy-efficient electronics. His lab’s innovations, such as the Michigan Micro Mote, have transformed global environmental monitoring and biomedical devices. Blaauw’s contributions have earned him numerous patents and awards.
Nancy Burns
Warren E. Miller Collegiate Professor of Political Science, LSA; and research professor, Center for Political Studies, Institute for Social Research
Nancy Burns has been a transformative figure in U-M’s political science department, guiding it through periods of change and challenge. Her research on gender and political participation has received significant recognition, and her mentorship has positively impacted a wide array of students and colleagues.
Gary Freed
Percy J. Murphy M. D. and Marcy C. Murphy R. N. Professor of Pediatrics for Child Health Delivery, professor of pediatrics, and professor of health management and policy, School of Public Health
Gary Freed is a recognized leader in pediatric health policy. His establishment of the CHEAR Center and contributions to vaccine policy and health equity have had a lasting impact on child health. Freed’s dedication to training the next generation of pediatric health professionals has earned him numerous accolades.
Andrew John Marshall
Professor of anthropology, of ecology, and of evolutionary biology, LSA; professor of environment and sustainability, School for Environment and Sustainability; and professor of program in environment, LSA and SEAS
Andrew John Marshall’s extensive research in primate evolutionary ecology has advanced conservation policies and understanding of tropical ecosystems. His work has led to impactful reclassifications and conservation strategies, while his commitment to mentoring has shaped future generations of conservation scientists.
Jeremy MG Taylor
Pharmacia Research Professor of Biostatistics, professor of biostatistics, School of Public Health; professor of computational medicine and bioinformatics, and of radiation oncology, Medical School
Jeremy MG Taylor is a leading figure in biostatistics, known for his innovative modeling techniques that impact cancer research. Taylor’s methods have enabled better understanding and treatment approaches for cancer, earning him prestigious awards and recognition in the scientific community.
Faculty Recognition Awards
The Faculty Recognition Awards acknowledge mid-career faculty for notable achievements in research, teaching, and service. Awardees include:
Deanna H. Gates
Professor of kinesiology, School of Kinesiology; professor of biomedical engineering, College of Engineering and Medical School; and professor of robotics, CoE
Deanna H. Gates is recognized for her pioneering work in biomechanics and rehabilitation engineering. Her research on prosthetics and assistive devices has received significant funding and has set new standards in the field, advancing both academic and practical applications.
Ashley Lucas
Professor of theatre and drama, School of Music, Theatre & Dance; professor in the Residential College, professor of English language and literature, LSA; and professor of art and design, Penny W. Stamps School of Art & Design
Ashley Lucas has made substantial contributions to the intersection of performance, incarceration, and social justice. Through her leadership of the Prison Creative Arts Project, Lucas has provided transformative arts programming and advanced public service through scholarly and creative endeavors.
Megan Sweeney
Arthur F. Thurnau Professor; professor of English language and literature, professor of Afroamerican and African studies, professor of women’s and gender studies and chair, Department of English Language and Literature, LSA
Megan Sweeney is celebrated for her innovative research in literary studies, particularly her work on reading cultures in penal contexts. Her contributions have been recognized with prestigious fellowships, reflecting her dedication to academic inquiry and mentorship.
Krista R. Wigginton
Professor of civil and environmental engineering and associate dean for graduate and professional education, College of Engineering
Krista R. Wigginton is internationally recognized for her work on water safety, focusing on viral pathogens in the environment. Her interdisciplinary research has informed global public health policies, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and earned her notable awards.
Laura B. Zahodne
Professor of psychology, LSA; and faculty associate, Survey Research Center, Institute for Social Research
Laura B. Zahodne is a clinical neuropsychologist advancing the understanding of cognitive aging and neurodegenerative diseases. Her research has highlighted the role of psychosocial factors and has been recognized with early career awards from prestigious organizations.
University Diversity and Social Transformation Professorship
The University Diversity and Social Transformation Professorships, initiated in 2019, honor senior faculty whose work influences societal conversations about inclusion and equity. The current awardee is:
Devon Payne-Sturges
University Diversity and Social Transformation Professor; and professor of environmental health sciences, School of Public Health
Payne Sturges
Devon Payne-Sturges is a leading scholar whose research has significantly addressed environmental justice and equity. Her work, including the development of influential frameworks and quantitative methods, has shaped both academic discourse and policy at the intersection of environmental health and social justice.
Research Faculty Achievement Award
The Research Faculty Achievement Award recognizes exceptional scholarly contributions in academia, highlighting innovative discoveries or technologies. Recipients include:
Jackie Goodrich
Research associate professor, environmental health sciences, School of Public Health
Jackie Goodrich is a preeminent figure in environmental epigenetics, known for her work on how chemical exposures alter DNA and impact health. Her research, integrating toxicology and large-scale epidemiological studies, has advanced understanding of disease risk and mitigation strategies.
Igor Sokolov
Research scientist, climate and space sciences and engineering, College of Engineering
Igor Sokolov’s pioneering research in space plasma physics has greatly advanced the understanding of solar phenomena. His models are now critical to NASA and NOAA, supporting real-time space weather forecasting and scientific discovery, while mentoring future scientists in the field.
Ashu Tripathi
Associate research scientist, Life Sciences Institute; and research associate professor, College of Pharmacy
Ashu Tripathi is celebrated for his leadership in natural products chemistry, particularly in automated discovery. His work with the Natural Products Discovery Core has led to significant collaborations, publications, and innovations that extend across therapeutic and industrial applications.
Research Faculty Mentor Award
The Research Faculty Mentor Award honors individuals who demonstrate excellence in mentoring research faculty and students, fostering academic growth and inclusivity. Recent honorees are:
Jessica Anand
Research assistant professor, pharmacology, Medical School
Jessica Anand is esteemed for her mentorship in the field of opioid pharmacology. Her inclusive approach has guided over 35 students, many of whom have pursued advanced education and successful careers. Anand’s nurturing environment fosters both personal and academic success.
Matthew Schipper
Program director, radiation oncology, research professor, radiation oncology, Medical School; research professor, biostatistics, and adjunct lecturer in epidemiology, School of Public Health
Matthew Schipper is recognized for his mentorship in radiation oncology and biostatistics, building an inclusive community that supports academic excellence. His efforts have enabled students and junior faculty to thrive, contributing significantly to interdisciplinary research and collaboration.
Research Faculty Recognition Award
The Research Faculty Recognition Award acknowledges early career achievement in research, highlighting significant scholarly contributions. Honorees include:
Grace Noppert
Research assistant professor, Survey Research Center, and faculty associate, Population Studies Center, Institute for Social Research
Grace Noppert is a rising star in epidemiology, with research focusing on social determinants of health. Her work, which has received significant funding, connects biological markers with sociological studies, holding promise for interventions that improve health outcomes in aging populations.
Nishil Talati
Assistant research scientist, electrical engineering and computer science, College of Engineering
Nishil Talati is known for his work in computing systems research, enhancing AI and data analytics performance. His interdisciplinary approach has led to significant collaborations and innovations recognized with awards, impacting both academic and industry practices.
Lanbo Xiao
Research investigator, pathology, Medical School
Lanbo Xiao’s research in chromatin remodeling and transcriptional regulation is shaping future cancer therapies. His innovative approaches have revealed new therapeutic targets and advanced diagnostics, influencing clinical practices and public health initiatives.
Collegiate Research Professorship Award
The Collegiate Research Professorship Award celebrates contributions that advance knowledge across disciplines. Recipients are:
Inbal Billie Nahum-Shani
Collegiate research professor, Office of the Vice President for Research; and research professor, Survey Research Center, Institute for Social Research
Nahum Shani
Inbal Billie Nahum-Shani is a pioneer in adaptive interventions that integrate digital tools with human support. Her work has guided numerous studies across health domains, contributing significantly to personalized patient care and healthcare methodologies.
Megan E. Patrick
Collegiate research professor, Office of the Vice President for Research; and research professor, Survey Research Center, Institute for Social Research
Megan E. Patrick is influential in substance use research, developing preventative strategies for health risk behaviors. Her leadership in the Monitoring the Future Panel study and numerous publications highlight her significant contributions to understanding adolescent and adult substance use.
Regents’ Award for Distinguished Public Service
The Regents’ Award for Distinguished Public Service honors contributions to public service that align with academic expertise. Awardees are:
Lilia Cortina
University Diversity and Social Transformation Professor; professor of psychology, and of women’s and gender studies, LSA; and professor of management and organizations, Stephen M. Ross School of Business
Lilia Cortina is a nationally recognized expert on workplace equity and sexual harassment. Her research, legal testimony, and practical tools have empowered institutions to create inclusive work cultures. Cortina’s contributions include co-authoring a landmark study on harassment in STEM fields.
Stephen Ward
Arthur F. Thurnau Professor; associate professor of Afroamerican and African studies, director academic program, Semester in Detroit Program in the Residential College, associate professor in the Residential College, and associate director of faculty, LSA
Stephen Ward’s commitment to public service has shaped U-M’s engagement with Detroit. Through his leadership in programs like Semester in Detroit, Ward has fostered meaningful partnerships and promoted social justice, enhancing both academic and community initiatives.
University Press Book Award
The University Press Book Award recognizes books that add distinction to the Press List. This year’s recipient is:
Rashmi Luthra
Professor emerita of communications and composition, Department of Language, Culture and Communication, College of Arts, Sciences and Letters, UM-Dearborn
Rashmi Luthra receives the University Press Book Award for “Destination Detroit: Discourses on the Refugee in a Post-Industrial City.” Her book offers a penetrating analysis of refugee discourses in Detroit, garnering acclaim for its exploration of xenophobia and allyship within contemporary America.
University Librarian Achievement Award
The University Librarian Achievement Award honors exceptional distinction in library services. This year’s recipient is:
Karen E. Downing
Librarian, education liaison, University Library
Karen E. Downing is recognized for her transformative service and leadership in academic librarianship. Her initiatives, such as the DEIA Data Toolkit, have expanded research support and inclusion, and her mentorship has guided many to successful careers in librarianship.
University Librarian Recognition Award
The University Librarian Recognition Award honors early career achievement in library services. This year’s awardee is:
Maggie Vanderford
Librarian for instruction and engagement, William L. Clements Library
Maggie Vanderford has transformed the Clements Library into a center for academic learning, building a robust instructional program and fostering connections with U-M’s academic community. Her efforts have made archives a foundation for original research and exploration.
Jackie Lawson Memorial Faculty Governance
The Jackie Lawson Memorial Faculty Governance Award honors contributions to faculty governance that exceed local campus confines. This year’s recipient is:
Bruce R. Maxim
Narasimhamurthi “Nattu” Natarajan Collegiate Professor of Engineering and professor of computer and information science, College of Engineering and Computer Science, UM-Dearborn
Bruce R. Maxim has strengthened faculty governance across all U-M campuses, fostering collaboration and leading pivotal discussions. His efforts have enhanced shared governance, supporting transformative initiatives and furthering U-M’s mission.
Distinguished Faculty Governance Award
The Distinguished Faculty Governance Award acknowledges service to faculty governance with a focus on university-wide impact. The honoree is:
Michèle A. Hannoosh
Professor of French, department of romance languages and literatures, LSA; and faculty ombuds, Office of the Provost & Executive Vice President Academic Affairs
Michèle A. Hannoosh is esteemed for her service as a faculty ombudsperson, mediating disputes with fairness and creativity. Her contributions have strengthened ethical conduct across U-M, earning the trust and respect of the university community.
