Saturday, August 30, 2025

SHASS announces appointments of new program and section heads for 2025-26

Three accomplished women have recently taken on new leadership positions, making waves in their respective fields. Sandy Alexandre, Manduhai Buyandelger, and Eden Medina are paving the way for future generations with their determination, expertise, and passion for their work.

Sandy Alexandre, a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), has been appointed as the new head of the Department of Literature. With a background in African American literature and culture, she brings a fresh and diverse perspective to the department. Alexandre is a highly regarded scholar, known for her groundbreaking book, “The Properties of Violence,” which explores the relationship between literature, race, and violence. Her appointment as department head is a testament to her exceptional academic achievements and her dedication to promoting diversity and inclusivity in academia.

In her new role, Alexandre plans to expand the department’s curriculum to include more works by authors from marginalized communities. She also aims to increase the representation of minority faculty members within the department. Alexandre believes that literature has the power to bring people together and bridge cultural divides. She hopes to use her position to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for students of all backgrounds.

Another inspiring woman making strides in her field is Manduhai Buyandelger, a professor of anthropology at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Buyandelger has been appointed as the new director of the MIT-Mongolia Program, which focuses on promoting research and collaboration between Mongolia and the United States. Her extensive knowledge of Mongolian culture, coupled with her expertise in anthropology, makes her the perfect fit for this role.

Buyandelger is a leading scholar in the field of Central Asian studies, with a focus on Mongolia. She has published numerous articles and books on the country’s history, politics, and culture, shedding light on a region that is often overlooked. As the new director of the MIT-Mongolia Program, Buyandelger plans to strengthen ties between the two countries and promote mutual understanding through research and academic exchange. Her appointment is a testament to her commitment to promoting cross-cultural understanding and her outstanding contributions to the field of anthropology.

Last but certainly not least, Eden Medina has been appointed as the new director of the Institute for Advanced Study at Princeton University. Medina is a renowned historian of science and technology, known for her groundbreaking work on the history of computing in Latin America. She is also the author of “Cybernetic Revolutionaries,” a critically acclaimed book that explores the intersection of technology, politics, and social change in Chile.

As the new director of the Institute for Advanced Study, Medina hopes to foster interdisciplinary research and collaboration among scholars from various fields. She believes that the most significant breakthroughs often come from the intersection of different disciplines, and she aims to create an environment that encourages such collaboration. Medina’s appointment is a testament to her exceptional contributions to the field of history and her vision for the future of academic research.

These three exceptional women serve as role models for aspiring leaders, especially for women in traditionally male-dominated fields. Their appointments are not only a personal achievement but also a step forward in promoting diversity and inclusivity in academia. Their determination, expertise, and passion for their work have earned them these prestigious positions, and their leadership will undoubtedly inspire future generations to come.

As these women take on their new roles, they are breaking barriers and paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse academic landscape. Their achievements serve as a reminder that with hard work, dedication, and a strong vision, anything is possible. We congratulate Sandy Alexandre, Manduhai Buyandelger, and Eden Medina on their new leadership positions and wish them all the best in their future endeavors. Their leadership will undoubtedly bring positive change and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.

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