Five faculty members have been named distinguished professors by The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees.
Distinguished professorships are among the highest honors in The University of Alabama System. They recognize extraordinary scholarly, creative and teaching achievements that bring significant prestige to the University. Honorees are selected through a rigorous nomination process that includes input from national experts, University of Alabama peers and former students.
These internationally recognized faculty members advance The University of Alabama’s research and teaching missions while enhancing its visibility and ability to attract top talent and resources. Their exemplary service, peer recognition and dedication to academic excellence give great credit to the University and enhance its global standing. The five new distinguished professors are accomplished scholars and educators whose work has brought distinction to UA.
Distinguished Research Professors
The three Distinguished Research Professors were selected on the basis of their international reputations in their respective fields. They represent the breadth of research conducted at UA.
Dr. Jason Bara
Styslinger College of Engineering
Dr. Jason Bara is recognized internationally as one of the most accomplished figures in the development of advanced polymer materials and composites based on ionic liquids. His work contributes significantly to innovation in materials science and engineering.
Dr. Peter Harms
Culverhouse College of Business
Dr. Peter Harms is recognized internationally for his leadership in management studies, with a focus on assessing and developing leadership, psychological well-being in the workplace and organizational behavior. His research has shaped an understanding of leadership and workplace dynamics across academic and professional communities worldwide.
Dr. Mercy Mumba
Capstone College of Nursing
Dr. Mercy Mumba is recognized internationally for her contributions to substance use, addiction and mental health research. Her work addresses critical public health challenges and has advanced both scholarship and practice in nursing and mental health care.
Distinguished Teaching Professors
The two new Distinguished Teaching Professors represent the best of classroom instruction, student mentorship and pedagogical innovation at UA.
Professor Anna Embree
College of Communication and Information Sciences
Professor Anna Embree is known nationally and internationally for her outstanding contributions to the teaching of book arts. Her innovative pedagogy, dedication to student mentorship and leadership in her field exemplify excellence in undergraduate and graduate instruction.
Dr. Kim Severt
College of Human Environmental Sciences
Dr. Kim Severt is recognized nationally and internationally for her excellence in teaching. Her commitment to pedagogical innovation and student success reflects the highest standards of teaching at The University of Alabama.