Amy Jamison has been named interim co-director for international research and engagement for the Center for Gender in Global Context effective Jan. 1.
In this role, Jamison will lead GenCen’s efforts in promoting gender-related research and outreach at Michigan State University and fostering global partnerships with other women’s and gender studies programs. She will act as GenCen’s liaison with similarly oriented women’s and gender studies, international development and global studies programs around the world.
Jamison, an education and gender research specialist, will also work with center-affiliated faculty across campus to advance International Studies and Programs’ and MSU’s gender-related international research on topics such as agriculture, food and development; natural resource management; health and nutrition; higher education capacity building; gendered violence; and empowerment strategies.
Jamison has served as assistant director and grant writer for GenCen since 2010. She has been involved with major grant and research projects in a number of African countries, including Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania, South Africa, Senegal, Burkina Faso and Mali.
“Dr. Jamison’s experience and enthusiasm for the work of the GenCen have been integral to its success during her six years with the center," said Steven Hanson, associate provost and dean of International Studies and Programs. “I look forward to seeing GenCen grow and thrive with her continued leadership.”
Jamison's research focuses broadly on African higher education development, educational policy in Africa, gender issues in higher education and gender in international development. Jamison holds master’s degrees in history and African studies from UCLA and a Ph.D. in educational policy from MSU.
Established in 2007, GenCen is located in ISP, which serves as a hub for international programming and research on campus. The center provides gender and women’s studies expertise and leadership across MSU’s mission of research, teaching, outreach and service.
Stephanie Nawyn is GenCen’s co-director for academic programs, outreach and engagement and a search is currently underway to permanently fill the position of co-director for international research and engagement.