University of Kansas Honors Faculty Fellows Expand Interdisciplinary Mentorship Program

The University of Kansas Announces Five New Honors Faculty Fellows for Fall 2026

The University of Kansas has welcomed five distinguished faculty members to its Honors Faculty Fellows cohort for the upcoming fall 2026 term, bringing fresh perspectives and expanded expertise to the program. This addition increases the total number of fellows to twelve, strengthening the university’s commitment to interdisciplinary education and student mentorship.

New Fellows Bring Diverse Expertise to Student Mentorship

Each of the newly appointed Honors Faculty Fellows contributes unique scholarly backgrounds that enrich the program’s mission of fostering academic excellence through cross-disciplinary collaboration. Stephen Jackson, an associate professor in the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, brings extensive research on the historical intersections of education, imperialism, and decolonization. His work helps students understand how educational systems evolve amid global change.

Lauren Norman, an assistant professor in the Department of Anthropology, specializes in studying small-scale societies—particularly in the Arctic—and their adaptations to environmental and social transformations. Her research combines traditional zooarchaeology with ancient DNA analysis to reveal complex relationships between people, animals, and landscapes. Norman’s expertise in cultural anthropology offers students valuable insights into human resilience and adaptation.

Brad Osborn, a professor of music theory, explores post-millennial popular music and music videos through rigorous music-theoretical approaches. His scholarship spans multiple publications and international presentations, making him a vital mentor for students interested in the intersection of art, culture, and technology.

Kris Pedersen, a clinical professor and speech-language pathologist, focuses on early childhood intervention and inclusive service provision. With a background in clinical instruction and mentorship, she supports undergraduate and graduate students preparing to work with young children facing disabilities. Her work emphasizes family-centered, collaborative approaches to supporting children and families in home and community settings.

Alejandro David Tamez, an assistant research professor at the Institute for Information Sciences, serves as a philosopher examining the impact of emerging technologies on epistemic environments, legal institutions, and social norms. His leadership in cyber-social dynamics research equips students with critical thinking tools for navigating rapidly changing technological landscapes.

Interdisciplinary Programs Strengthen Academic Impact

The Honors Faculty Fellows play a pivotal role in advancing the interdisciplinary nature of the University of Kansas Honors Program. As mentors, they guide honors students through signature initiatives such as “Sharing Your Honors Path,” where second-year students present co-curricular posters under the guidance of their fellows. This experiential learning model bridges classroom study with real-world application, preparing students for innovative problem-solving in diverse fields.

Through teaching first-year honors seminars, serving on program committees, and acting as ambassadors for the Honors Community, these fellows embody the program’s commitment to breaking down disciplinary silos. Their collaborative spirit reflects the broader interdisciplinary philosophy that defines the University of Kansas Honors Faculty Fellows initiative.

How Students Can Engage with the Program

Prospective and current students are encouraged to explore the opportunities created by this expanded fellowship cohort. The added diversity of perspectives ensures that students from varied academic backgrounds can find mentors who inspire interdisciplinary thinking and personal growth.

To learn more about the University of Kansas Honors Faculty Fellows and their contributions to student mentorship, visit the official program webpage. The fellows themselves are available for outreach via email at [email protected], and detailed bios are available for each individual scholar.

Next Steps for Students and Prospective Scholars

Whether you are a current student seeking additional mentorship or an incoming scholar eager to join the Honors community, the expanded cohort presents exciting possibilities. The University of Kansas continues to invest in its faculty fellowship program, recognizing that interdisciplinary collaboration drives innovation and student success.

For those interested in applying to become a future Honors Faculty Fellow, contact program director Sarah Crawford-Parker at [email protected] to learn more about the selection process and eligibility criteria.

Stay connected with the latest updates on the University Honors Program by following KU News online or exploring the various KU digital platforms dedicated to student achievement and academic advancement.