We want to celebrate and thank Professor Anna Haskins for her service as Associate Director here at the Initiative on Race and Resilience. In this role, she provided the guidance and vision necessary for IRR to achieve its goals and continue to contribute to the mission of the College and University. Professor Haskins will relinquish the role of associate director at the end of May and assume that of co-editor of the journal, Sociology of Education, which will call the University of Notre Dame home, beginning in June.
Under her leadership, IRR increased the number of affiliates, improved the process for taking in new affiliates, streamlined the process for dispensing research funds, and submitted applications to help fund programming. Furthermore, Professor Haskins spearheaded unique programs like the “We Got Us Now” presentation with Ebony Underwood, a thoughtful and inspiring look at the impact of the carceral state on families.
Most importantly, we have been transformed by Professor Haskins’s organization and vision making of the Artist-in-Residence program for this year. Through her dynamic association with David Martin, they offered the University of Notre Dame the opportunity to re-establish and reimagine community partnerships with members of the Pokagon band of the Potawatomi. These particulars included securing studio space for David Martin, coordinating class visits, and organizing the dance and drum performance – a first on campus in nearly 30 years. They facilitated the dance performance in the new Raclin Murphy Museum, arranged for David’s talk and walk-through at the museum, and will conclude their work with the unveiling of the George Winter painting scheduled for this coming September.
Anyone who knows Professor Haskins will tell you that she is a bundle of energy and infectious enthusiasm. But that’s just the beginning. She is perpetually overflowing with ideas: bold and creative thinking that never fails to get us moving in the right direction. Equally as important, she is detail-oriented to a fault, which means she follows through to implement so many of her innovative plans. In short, Professor Haskins is an inspiration to work with, a constant reminder of why we designed IRR and what we want to accomplish. She is a gift to this community, an example of dedication, selflessness, and love to which we should all aspire. Indeed, IRR will be eternally grateful for the care and love Professor Haskins has showered on this group.
We commend and applaud Professor Haskins on her recent appointment as co-editor of the Sociology of Education journal for The American Sociological Association. Professor Haskins will be transitioning to this new role in June as it will allow her to shape and advance more in-depth research within her fields of interest. We hope you will join us in recognizing our extraordinary colleague and friend.
With gratitude,
Dr. Mark A. Sanders
Director of the Initiative on Race and Resilience