معرفی
Andrea Fay Barber-Dansby serves as a Senior Lecturer at Purdue University's School of Engineering Technology - Purdue Statewide in Anderson, Indiana, where she has established herself as a dedicated educator and community engagement leader. Her career bridges substantial industry experience with academic instruction, focusing on engineering education and diversity initiatives.
Education:
- M.B.A from Columbia University, 1989
- B.S. in Industrial Engineering from Purdue University, 1984
- Cooperative Education Certificate from Purdue University, 1984
Barber-Dansby's professional focus centers on engineering education, manufacturing systems, and creating pathways for underrepresented groups in STEM. She has developed innovative programs like the Food Engineer Adventure Camp, which introduces girls of color to STEM careers throughout the food supply chain through hands-on activities with local growers, food companies, and technology applications. Her recent work with the Alliance for Identity Inclusive Computing Education demonstrates her commitment to cultural competence in computing education.
Professional Recognition:
- 2024 Purdue Office of the Vice Provost for Teaching and Learning - Teaching Excellence Award
- 2022 Purdue's Multiplying Good Jefferson Award for Outstanding Public Service
- 2021 Polytechnic Institute's Faculty Equity, Inclusion and Advocacy award
- 2014 Education award from Madison County Black Chamber of Commerce
- 2024 selection for Duke/NSF-funded Alliance for Identity Inclusive Computing Education's 3C Fellowship
Barber-Dansby maintains extensive community connections through her board membership with the Purdue Black Alumni Organization, facilitation of the Anderson Advanced Manufacturing Program, and creation of Strive Learning tutoring service. Despite facing challenges when some organizations declined to support diversity initiatives, she successfully secured partnerships with entities like Nestlé to continue her impactful work. Her philosophy centers on education as empowerment, particularly emphasizing that 'once you have your certificate or degree, no matter what obstacles may come your way, you still own that knowledge.'
She actively collaborates with community partners including Anderson Community School Corporation, Meijer, Anderson Career Center, Idea Co-op, Purdue Extension, and Madison County Chamber of Commerce to create meaningful educational experiences that have inspired many students to pursue further Purdue Polytechnic programs.
