Austin Peay State University professor earns award for her work in diversity, equity, and inclusion

Austin Peay State University is celebrating the accomplishments of Dr. Kallina Dunkle, a professor of geology and the associate dean for the College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, for earning the Inclusion Champion Award.

According to an article on Austin Peay State University’s website, LaNeeça Williams, who serves as the chief of institutional culture and Title IX coordinator for the university, was quoted as praising Dr. Dunkle, saying, “All the work Kallina has done, not just in DEI but being a supportive faculty member and associate dean on this campus... we hear all the time about how she wants to bring things together and collaborate across campus. That’s vital to the work of DEI. She is responsible for and influential with a group of people that have skin in the game and want to do the necessary work to support students, faculty and staff. We couldn’t think of anyone more deserving than Kallina for all her hard work the last few years.”

The award was presented to Dr. Dunkle by Austin Peay’s Institutional Culture Committee at the second annual Martin Luther King Jr. breakfast. One of Dr. Dunkle’s achievements that led to her earning the award was in 2020, she was instrumental in establishing the CoSTEM Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. The goal of that committee is to gather data and make changes to improve the campus’ commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. This has led to such action items as hosting seminars and pursuing funding opportunities on campus.

Dr. Dunkle’s work as professor of geology focuses on water contamination, flooding, and environmental issues.

Dr. Dunkle said of receiving the award, "I'm grateful for this honor, but the credit also belongs to our dedicated committee members and university partners who have driven this work. We have more to accomplish, but I'm hopeful our current initiatives can lead to meaningful, long-term changes in CoSTEM and beyond."

For more information about Austin Peay State University, visit the school’s website.