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Biology prof honored diversity initiatives
The conference, whose theme was Diversity in Retrospect and Prospect: Expanding the Pool of Researchers to Reduce Health Disparities, honored individual and institutional role models in expanding the pool of minority researchers. Usher said he was honored to be included among those individuals who have been recognized with the prestigious award for their efforts to increase diversity. According to Andrea Mickle, president and chief executive officer of Minority Access, Usher symbolizes Minority Access ideal faculty mentor role model--one who has contributed to increasing the pool of minority researchers through mentoring and supporting minority students. A letter to Usher from Minority Access stated, Our aims are to pay tribute to you personally for your achievements and to provide guidance to others. Usher was recognized for his many contributions to providing educational opportunities and support to underrepresented and minority students. The Bridges program offers academic assistance, research opportunities and involvement in UDs NUCLEUS (Network of Undergraduate Collaborative Learning Experiences for Underrepresented Scholars) program. Usher serves as assistant director of NUCLEUS, which is funded by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and encourages and prepares academically talented students, including minority students, in the sciences to enter graduate and professional school programs and science-related professions. Usher also received the Mentor of the Year Award from UDs Ronald E. McNair Post Baccalaureate Achievement Program, which prepares underrepresented students for postgraduate careers in research and education. In addition, Usher has applied for a Department of Defense grant to provide students from Lincoln and Delaware State universities with opportunities to work in laboratories on prostate cancer research at UD in conjunction with his colleague Robert Sikes, assistant professor of biological sciences. Article by Sue Moncure To learn how to subscribe to UDaily, click here. |