@KarenGrossEdu Dr. Michael Robinson: Does acclaimed scholarly work, recognition (awards), and success inside and outside the Academy for Black Faculty have the potential to turn faculty and administrators into enemies? In other words, does success put a target on the back of Black Faculty if they become recognized for their intellect? If it does, how can Black Faculty protect themselves?
Karen Gross, Esq.: I think the target is always there. I think getting awards raises a different question: was the award merited or given because the person is a minority or a woman? So there can be an undermining of the success that was well-deserved and merited. Now that is not a universal problem and leaders can message well to honor the person and recognize the accomplishment. The organizations giving the awards can also play a role in this -- furthering the recognition through their own channels. This is meaningful because it is not an institution generated.
Karen Gross, Esq. is a former President, Southern Vermont College; Former Senior Policy Advisor, US Dept. of Education; Former Law Professor; Author.
Karen Gross, Esq.: I think the target is always there. I think getting awards raises a different question: was the award merited or given because the person is a minority or a woman? So there can be an undermining of the success that was well-deserved and merited. Now that is not a universal problem and leaders can message well to honor the person and recognize the accomplishment. The organizations giving the awards can also play a role in this -- furthering the recognition through their own channels. This is meaningful because it is not an institution generated.
Karen Gross, Esq. is a former President, Southern Vermont College; Former Senior Policy Advisor, US Dept. of Education; Former Law Professor; Author.