November 4, 2005
Purdue Agriculture names assistant dean to expand diversity programming, recruitment
|
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Purdue University's College of Agriculture has named Pamala Morris to a new position as assistant dean of Purdue Agriculture and director of diversity programs.
Morris will develop and administer multicultural and gender-based programs that are designed to enhance diversity and provide a supportive environment for students, faculty and staff in Purdue Agriculture. She also will work to increase diversity representation among these groups.
"We are committed to building awareness of diversity issues within Purdue Agriculture," said Randy Woodson, the Glenn W. Sample Dean of Agriculture. "We recognize that everyone benefits from a climate that fosters and values diversity. Providing an environment that embraces our differences in thought, background and experience is essential as we prepare students to live and work in a global community. Pam brings a wealth of experience to this position and will provide the leadership to evaluate and expand our diversity programs."
Morris, an associate professor of youth development and agricultural education, has coordinated diversity programming for the Purdue Cooperative Extension Service since 1995. She works with Purdue Extension educators throughout the state on diversity awareness issues and develops programs that serve underrepresented audiences.
"Our vision is to create a culture of inclusion and provide a welcoming environment where everyone is respected and valued for their contributions," Morris said. "Creating this inviting atmosphere is essential to recruit and retain diversity in faculty, staff and students."
Morris will build upon diversity and gender programs already in place. Purdue Agriculture, the College of Engineering and College of Science jointly co-sponsor annual forums for faculty and staff on gender issues and diversity. Additionally, Purdue Agriculture offers multicultural programs and services for undergraduate and graduate students, as well as high school students.
Morris will retain her faculty position and split her time between youth development and agricultural education and her new position as assistant dean. She also will work jointly with Purdue Agriculture's Diversity Action Team, of which she is a member, and serve as a liaison for universitywide diversity initiatives.
Morris joined the Purdue Cooperative Extension Service in 1992 as 4-H youth program director for Marion County. She served in that position until 1995 when she was appointed state program coordinator for 4-H youth. She was named assistant professor in the Department of Youth Development and Agricultural Education in 1998. Prior to joining Purdue Extension, Morris was an elementary school teacher and principal in Indianapolis Public Schools.
Morris is a member of numerous academic and professional societies, including the National Association for Multicultural Education. She received the 2005 Breakthrough Woman Award from the Indianapolis Chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women and the 2002 National Diversity Award from the U.S. Department of Agriculture/Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service. She is the author of numerous journal articles and Purdue Extension publications. Morris earned bachelor's and master's degrees in elementary education from Ball State University and a doctorate in curriculum and instructional design from Purdue.
Writer: Olivia Maddox, (765) 496-3207, maddoxol@purdue.edu
Sources: Pamala Morris, (765) 494-8293, pmorris@purdue.edu
Randy Woodson, (765) 494-8391, woodson@purdue.edu
Ag Communications: (765) 494-2722;
Beth Forbes, forbes@purdue.edu
Agriculture News Page
To the News Service home page