معرفی
Jennifer Burris serves as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Lenoir-Rhyne University, where she also holds a tenured professorship in the Department of Physics. In her administrative capacity, she oversees six colleges, Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary, Student Affairs, University Libraries, Student Success (BEAR Central), Institutional Research and Assessment, Registrar’s Office, and International Education.
Her educational background includes:
- Ph.D. and M.S. in Physics from Colorado State University
- B.S. in Applied Science from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
Burris's research and professional focus centers on Physics, STEM Education, and Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education, with significant emphasis on increasing women's representation in STEM through intersectional approaches. Her work bridges academic leadership and institutional transformation, particularly in equity-focused educational frameworks.
Her scientific contributions have been recognized with:
- 2020 Optical Society's Diversity & Inclusion Advocacy Recognition
- North Carolina Board of Governors Award for Excellence in Teaching
As a principal investigator, Burris secured a $1 million NSF:ADVANCE grant targeting systemic barriers for women in STEM. Her leadership extends to service on the North Carolina BRIDGES Academic Leadership Program board and the American Council on Education Women’s Network, driving statewide initiatives for inclusive academic advancement.
