Julia Bowsher, NDSU associate professor and chair of biological sciences, has been selected as a fellow of the National Science Foundation’s IAspire Leadership Academy. Approximately 30 people from across the country are selected for each annual cohort.
The primary goal of IAspire Leadership Academy is to develop and support the next generation of underrepresented leaders in STEM higher education.
“I am excited for this opportunity to grow in my leadership skills, and I look forward to applying what I learn to my role as chair of biological sciences,” Bowsher said.
The academy is a two-year program. During the first year, IAspire fellows enhance their leadership skills and knowledge in these competencies:
• Managing conflict
• Fostering collaboration
• Leading change
• Communicating effectively
• Valuing and advocating for diversity and inclusion
• Developing a deeper knowledge and appreciation of higher education
• Developing self and others
• Leading with integrity and values
The second year of the program involves an action project where the fellow applies concepts learned during the first year in a project that adds value to their institution.
“NDSU has been working to improve diversity, equity and inclusion on campus. I plan to use my action project to help move these efforts forward,” Bowsher said.
IAspire Leadership Academy participants have a broad range of experiences, backgrounds, perspectives, roles and institutions. The objective is to build an inclusive learning community where fellows can learn from both their differences and similarities.
Bowsher joined the NDSU faculty in 2010. Her honors include the NDSU Fred Waldron Research Award, NDSU College of Science and Mathematics Excellence in Research Award, two Apple Polisher Awards and a National Academies Education Fellow in Life Sciences.
She earned her bachelor’s degree at Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut; master’s degree in zoology from the University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand; and doctorate in biology at Duke University, Durham, North Carolina.
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