Cal Poly has recently recognized the outstanding contributions of its faculty with the inaugural Faculty Excellence Awards, celebrating three distinguished professors for their innovative work in teaching, research, and community service. Among the recipients is Joni Roberts, an Assistant Professor of Public Health, who has garnered significant attention for her deep commitment to addressing health disparities and for integrating equity into education. This award not only honors individual achievements but also exemplifies Cal Poly’s broader commitment to academic excellence and its distinctive Learn by Doing philosophy, which emphasizes practical, hands-on experience in the learning process.
Joni Roberts has dedicated herself to advancing public health education since joining Cal Poly’s Kinesiology and Public Health Department in 2019. Her selection for the Faculty Excellence Award underscores her contributions that extend not only within the classroom but also into the broader public health community. Her work demonstrates a clear understanding of the intersectionality of healthcare and education, particularly in marginalized communities, where disparities often manifest severely. By focusing on these issues, Roberts has emerged as a thought leader who inspires both her students and colleagues.
The Faculty Excellence Award reflects the university’s core values and its aspiration to cultivate an academic environment that nurtures both innovation and inclusivity. The honorees were chosen based on nominations from college deans, recognizing their significant contributions within their respective fields. The other awardees alongside Roberts are Phoenix (Dongfeng) Fang, specializing in computer science and software engineering, and Shannon Shoff, who is dedicated to food science and nutrition. Their diverse areas of expertise highlight Cal Poly’s commitment to fostering a well-rounded educational experience for its students.
Dr. Roberts’ educational philosophy aligns closely with Cal Poly’s mission. Drawing from her own experiences as a Jamaican expatriate, she emphasizes cultural competence in her curriculum, focusing on how cultural factors influence health and education outcomes. This perspective not only enriches the learning environment but also prepares students to think critically about public health issues within diverse populations. The recognition by her peers as a recipient of the Faculty Excellence Award is a testament to her dedication to this mission, showcasing her impact on both students and the academic community.
The 40 Under 40 Public Health Catalyst Award is another accolade that Roberts recently received, further solidifying her position in the field. This award acknowledges emerging leaders in public health who are making significant contributions to the sector before the age of 40. By tackling critical issues such as period poverty in Uganda and cultural factors influencing obesity rates in African American communities, Roberts is not only advancing research but also advocating for policy changes that can lead to tangible improvements in public health.
Her scholarly work spans various topics, including menstrual health disparities and innovative approaches to health education. Roberts has been vocal about the importance of addressing period poverty—a pressing issue that is often overlooked in public health discussions. Her research illustrates that the inability to access essential hygiene products can lead to serious health complications, highlighting the nuanced ways in which socio-economic factors impact health outcomes. As awareness grows around issues like these, Roberts is at the forefront, pushing conversations that can lead to real social change.
In addition to her research, the collaborative work Roberts undertook with Assistant Professor Amanda Frye provides critical insights into the experiences of Black educators in predominantly white institutions. Their joint analysis uncovers the unique challenges faced by faculty of color and the strategies they employ to overcome these barriers. This work is an essential contribution to the dialogue surrounding equity in academia, offering a platform for diverse voices that have historically been marginalized.
Roberts has also contributed significantly to her department and the university through active participation in various committees and mentorship programs. She has shown leadership in initiatives aimed at fostering community and promoting inclusivity on campus. Her role in leading affinity groups exemplifies her commitment to creating spaces where students, faculty, and staff can engage with each other, share experiences, and advocate for a more inclusive college environment. During the initial transition to online learning amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Roberts played a key role in supporting technological advancements that were critical to ensuring educational continuity.
Her teaching methods reflect her dedication to the Learn by Doing philosophy. Roberts believes that education should go beyond traditional lecture formats to encompass experiential learning opportunities. This approach equips students with the skills they need to actively engage in their communities and understand the complexities of public health. She encourages her students to conduct field research and participate in community-based projects, reinforcing the principle that education should serve broader societal goals.
As Roberts continues her journey toward tenure, she expresses gratitude for the recognition she has received while also acknowledging the challenges ahead. The tenure process can be daunting for faculty, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. However, Roberts remains optimistic, focusing on the positive influence she can have through her research, teaching, and mentorship. Her resilience mirrors the experiences of many women of color in academia, paving the way for future generations to thrive in educational spaces.
Roberts’ interdisciplinary approach draws on her vast experiences, both personal and professional, enriching her presentations and publications. The collaborations she fosters among her students have led to numerous peer-reviewed articles and conference presentations, further enhancing the reputation of Cal Poly’s public health program. Her active engagement with students creates a vibrant academic atmosphere where learners can thrive, innovate, and develop a passionate interest in public health.
The Faculty Excellence Awards not only celebrate individual educators but also serve as a reminder of the collective mission shared by Cal Poly faculty—to inspire and nurture the next generation of leaders in various fields. The recognition of Roberts, Fang, and Shoff highlights the university’s investment in academic excellence and the future of education. Their contributions demonstrate how dedicated faculty can significantly influence education, research, and advocacy, ultimately benefiting society at large.
In conclusion, as Cal Poly continues to champion impactful educational practices through awards like the Faculty Excellence Award, individuals like Joni Roberts stand out as beacons of excellence in academia. Her relentless pursuit of equity, commitment to public health education, and innovative teaching methods not only benefit her students but also contribute to broader societal improvements. As faculty members continue to push the envelope in their respective fields, the landscape of higher education only becomes richer and more inclusive in its pursuit of knowledge for all.
Subject of Research: Public Health Education and Equity
Article Title: Celebrating Excellence: Cal Poly Honors Faculty Innovators in Public Health and Beyond
News Publication Date: October 2023
Web References: Cal Poly News
References: Not applicable
Image Credits: Courtesy Cal Poly
Keywords: Faculty Excellence Award, Public Health, Education, Equity, Community Engagement, Cal Poly, Cultural Competence, Period Poverty, Women in Academia, Mentorship, Innovation in Teaching, Health Disparities.
