African-American Studies develops new programs to attract more students
With Njeri Jackson, chairwoman of the Department of African-American Studies on research leave, Christopher Brooks is serving as interim chairman in her place.
Jackson’s research, Brooks said, is creating a new direction for the Department of African-American Studies which includes looking at expanding the curriculum to include health care.
With Njeri Jackson, chairwoman of the Department of African-American Studies on research leave, Christopher Brooks is serving as interim chairman in her place.
Jackson’s research, Brooks said, is creating a new direction for the Department of African-American Studies which includes looking at expanding the curriculum to include health care.
“The new vision of the department is to attract external funding, to attract majors and to make the whole student engagement a reality,” Brooks said, adding that faculty are applying for grants at a much higher rate than ever before, which is helping to cultivate a research-producing environment.
Robert Holsworth, acting dean of the College of Humanities and Sciences, said Jackson’s research involves submitting grant proposals and attending various conferences in Richmond and elsewhere.
“The department is interested in focusing on this issue,” Holsworth said, “and in partnering with faculty from the MCV campus. Dr. Jackson will be on the forefront of that effort.”
Jackson has been on leave since July 2005. Her research involves health disparities, which is finding out whether there is equal access and treatment in the U.S. health-care system. This project looks at whether people in different categories, such as race, gender, income and background, receive the same level of medical care.
Brandy Mottley, a senior criminal justice major and member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., said the department is taking a step in the right direction.
It will encourage people to major in African-American studies, she said. The program, she added, would give students more options after they graduate.
Holsworth said Jackson’s proposals have been submitted to funding agencies collaboratively with VCU Medical Center faculty for grants related to rehabilitation for people with spinal cord injuries. Her research is part of the endeavor to expand the department’s curriculum to include health care.
Jackson is expected resume chair duties July 1.
