Dr. Oscar A. Barbarin Named 2016 Elkins Professor by USM

The University System of Maryland has recently named Oscar A. Barbarin, Ph.D., Chair of the African American Studies Department (AASD), a Wilson H. Elkins Professor.

The distinguished professorship is bestowed upon faculty who have demonstrated the ability to lead and inspire students at all levels, achieved excellence in their fields as well as in areas other than their traditional discipline, and passionately pursued scholarly endeavors beyond the University System of Maryland.

The professorship’s namesake, Dr. Wilson H. Elkins, was a former Rhodes scholar who led the University of Maryland (UMD) to unprecedented levels of distinction as its president from 1954 to 1978. During his tenure as president, UMD grew in size, scope and national standing. The Elkins Professorship was established in 1978 to recognize professors at College Park, and in 1988 it was decided that faculty across the entire University System of Maryland were eligible for the honor.

Traditionally, endowed professorships are among the highest honors bestowed upon academic professionals. Dr. Barbarin, who has recently joined the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences as the Chair of AASD, undoubtedly embodies the spirit of the Elkins Professorship. Please join us in congratulating Dr. Barbarin on his tremendous achievement.

Published on Mon, Jul 27, 2015 - 3:13PM