Author, Speaker, President of Spelman College from 2002-2015
About
What are you doing today in your career?
After more than 20 years as a psychology professor, I became a college administrator, and eventually served as president of Spelman College for 13 years (2002-2015). While I enjoyed that role very much, I missed having the time to write. When I was ready to retire from Spelman, I decided I would pursue writing and speaking as my primary professional activities. I started by completely updating my 1997 book, Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria? and Other Conversations About Race. The newly revised 20th anniversary edition was released in September 2017, and I have spent the last year traveling the country talking about the book. I also frequently speak at higher education conferences and professional development seminars for college administrators about the essential elements of effective and inclusive leadership. My next writing project will be focused on that topic.
What inspires you?
I am inspired by courageous people who speak up against social injustice, especially when others are silent. I am also inspired by the beauty of the natural world.
What impact has your Psychology degree at UM had on your career or life?
I studied clinical psychology with the intention of becoming a child and family therapist. The opportunity to work as a graduate teaching assistant with my dissertation adviser, Dr. Eric Bermann, introduced me to the joys of teaching. That experience set the stage for future teaching opportunities, and ultimately I decided to pursue the path of a psychology professor, rather than that of a practicing therapist. Later though, I found my clinical training was exceedingly helpful to me in my role as a college president. The ability to listen carefully, to communicate clearly, and understand individual motivations and group dynamics was extremely helpful! An added bonus of my UM experience – I met my wonderful husband in Ann Arbor when we were both graduate students there. We have been married almost 40 years!
What do you remember most about your time at UM?
The people I met – fellow graduate students, faculty mentors, and the clients I worked with in my clinical internships.
What advice would you give to aspiring Psychology students?
Pursue your passion! Psychology is a field that can lead you in many different directions. Don’t be afraid to take risks – that is where the greatest rewards are likely to be.
