UNC Physics and Astronomy Professor Sheila Kannappan was among four university leaders who received the University Award for the Advancement of Women for 2016. The award, which was introduced in 2006, recognizes significant accomplishment in mentoring, recruiting, offering professional development or elevating the profile of women within the university. The winners were recognized by Chancellor Carol L. Folt on March 4th.
Dr. Kannappan serves as the diversity liaison and Associate Chair for Diversity in the Department of Physics and Astronomy. She also serves as faculty advisor to the UNC Women in Physics chapter, and organizes the annual Computational Astronomy and Physics Research Experiences for Undergraduates (CAP REU) program.
The Physics and Astronomy department is one of only two UNC departments that have had two faculty members win this award. Professor Laurie McNeil was a 2010 recipient of the award.
The department would like to congratulate Professor Kannappan on this accomplishment and also thank her for her commitment to diversity at UNC.