Dionne Danns, a professor and educational historian in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, is the recipient of the Class of 1950 Herman B Wells Endowed Professorship.

The award recognizes Bloomington campus professors who are extraordinary scholars and teachers and inspirational instructors of undergraduate students. Danns, the author of three books, was recognized for the breadth and impact of her teaching, service and research contributions to diversity and inclusion.

“I am honored to receive this recognition. I’ve spent my 16-year career at IU focused on diversity in the classroom, in my research and in my formal and informal service roles,” Danns said. “I am grateful to my colleagues in the School of Education for nominating and supporting me and to my friends around IU who provide me with the space to be my full self. I am most grateful to my current and former students who continually push me and remind me why I do this work.”

Danns will carry the title of Class of 1950 Herman B Wells Endowed Professor for the remainder of her career at IU Bloomington, and will receive a grant of $10,000 per year for five years.

The Class of 1950 endowed the professorship to enrich the undergraduate educational experience and emphasize the values that Wells brought to his work, including devotion to diversity, inclusion and academic excellence.

Adapted from a story from Around IU Bloomington