Galloway, N.J. — Donnetrice Allison, a professor at Stockton University, recently wrapped up her residency as the Knapp Chair of Liberal Arts at the University of San Diego. This role, part of a tradition over 30 years old, includes hosting distinguished scholars for up to three weeks each semester.
During her time in California, Allison enriched the campus by engaging students in African American history courses, facilitating discussions around media, culture, and identity, and leading workshops focused on authentic storytelling. These opportunities helped students connect their personal narratives with the broader context of their studies.
Allison also held vital conversations with faculty about teaching race and culture in diverse disciplines. Her public events included a lecture on access and representation in higher education, highlighting the ongoing challenges that many students face. In line with Black History Month, she organized a program on hip-hop, showcasing it as a rich archive of Black history. She also shared her insights through a screening and discussion of her dramedy series, Teaching While Black.
A particularly special moment for Allison was receiving the nomination for the Knapp Chair position from Toyo Aboderin, a former student who is now a tenure-track faculty member in History. “It was a full-circle moment for me,” she said. It emphasized the role of mentorship in academia. “I became a professor because of my mentor, and now I’ve inspired someone else to follow the same path,” she added.
Allison reflected on the importance of mentorship throughout her career. “Seeing former students thrive validates my efforts and strengthens my commitment to helping others achieve their dreams.” This philosophy of nurturing new talent is crucial in academic circles, as it fosters a supportive environment for future scholars.
Having spent 22 years at Stockton, Allison’s dedication to education and mentorship continues to shape the university community. Recently, a survey by the American Association of Colleges and Universities revealed that 75% of students believe mentorship significantly affects their academic success. This statistic underscores the impact of educators like Allison on individual lives and educational systems as a whole.
By actively participating in conversations about race, culture, and the sharing of stories, Donnetrice Allison is not just teaching; she is inspiring a new generation, making her mark on both her students and the academic community as a whole.
