Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences selected for Women in Higher Education Achievement Award

Dr. Darcy Russell, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Baker University, was selected by the National Panhellenic Conference Foundation for its Women in Higher Education Achievement Award. She was formally honored during the NPC Foundation dinner on Saturday, Oct. 5, during the 2019 NPC Annual Educational Conference.

“As the daughter of two educators and someone who has dedicated herself to a career in higher education, receiving the Women in Higher Education Achievement award was a pivotal moment for me,” Russell said. “The fact that this award is given by the National Panhellenic Conference Foundation makes it even more special since I am passionate about the value of the sorority experience as a means to help young women develop leadership skills and participate in service to their communities.”

The award recognizes an outstanding woman who has made or is making a significant difference in higher education through her scholarship and leadership. A 1980 graduate of Baker University, Dr. Russell returned to her alma mater in 1998 and taught courses in molecular and cellular biology, microbiology, advanced cell biology and virology for two decades. She served as chairman of the Department of Biology and Chemistry before being named dean in 2018.

Dr. Russell is a member of Zeta Tau Alpha and has served as province president, NPC alternate delegate, and national academic achievement chairman in the organization. Last year, Zeta Tau Alpha presented Dr. Russell with the Louise Kettler Helper Memorial Award for her many contributions to the progress of Zeta Tau Alpha and the fraternity and sorority world.

“At Baker, we experience the difference Dean Russell makes every day,” said Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Marc Childress. “It is a special treat to see her recognized for her passion for scholarship and leadership at a national level.”