UNCF Mellon Fellows hail from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), with Spelman College producing the highest number of PhDs who now work in academia (33), followed by Tougaloo College (14) and Morehouse College (13).
Spelman's graduates have become key contributors, including Associate Professors and Full Professors across various disciplines, underscoring the institution's significant impact on shaping the academic landscape.
Mellon Fellows have made their mark in a wide range of disciplines, from English and African American Studies to Physics and Sociology, highlighting the broad contributions they are making to academia with their diverse perspectives.
Gabriel Williams, College of Charleston, is an Associate Professor of Atmospheric Physics.
Melanee Harvey, Howard University, serves as an Associate Professor of Art History.
Lauren Eldridge Stewart, Washington University in St. Louis, is an Assistant Professor of Music.
Numerous Fellows have advanced to the rank of Associate Professor, making substantial contributions to their departments and fields.
Julius Fleming Jr., University of Maryland, is an Associate Professor of English.
Takkara Brunson, Texas A&M University, serves as an Associate Professor of History.
Several Fellows have achieved the rank of Full Professor, solidifying their roles as senior leaders in academia and contributing through research, teaching, and mentorship.
Erica Edwards, Yale University, is a Professor of English and African American Studies.
Howard Rambsy, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, serves as a Professor of Literature.
Kalenda Eaton, University of Oklahoma, is a Professor in the Clara Luper Department of African and African American Studies.
Some Fellows hold significant administrative positions and now serve as Department Chairs, leading their academic units with distinction and shaping the direction of their fields.
Courtney Thompson, College of Wooster, is Chair and Associate Professor of Africana Studies.
James Ford, Occidental College, serves as Department Chair in Black Studies.
Some Fellows have transitioned into academic administration, advancing initiatives related to research and leadership at their institutions.
Kim Lewis, Howard University, is the Associate Dean for Research.
Renee Moore, Drexel University, serves as Director of the Biostatistics Scientific Collaboration Center and Associate Dean for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging.
Mellon Fellows have ascended to some of the highest leadership roles in academia, leading their institutions and demonstrating how the program cultivates transformative leaders in higher education.
Brian Johnson, Warner Pacific University, serves as President.
Aisha Francis-Samuels, Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology, is the President and CEO.
The UNCF/Mellon Programs continue to play a pivotal role in transforming academia. Mellon Fellows are thriving as professors, administrators, and leaders, advancing the program’s mission by promoting diversity and excellence in higher education. Their contributions across various disciplines and institutions demonstrate the lasting impact of the Mellon Programs in creating a more inclusive and dynamic academic environment.