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Josephine Lee

For someone who graduated with a physics degree from MIT, Josephine Lee sure has made quite an impact on Asian American studies and the performing arts at the University of Minnesota.

For her contributions to the U of M and the Twin Cities communities, Lee has received a U of M Graduate-Professional Teaching Award.

For someone who graduated with a physics degree from MIT, Josephine Lee sure has made quite an impact on Asian American studies and the performing arts at the University of Minnesota.

For her contributions to the U of M and the Twin Cities communities, Lee has received a U of M Graduate-Professional Teaching Award.

Lee was a founder and leader with the Asian American Studies Initiative that ultimately resulted in the formation of the Asian American Studies Program.

“Jo’s contributions to graduate education are truly astounding,” said a colleague. “She has exhibited excellence in instruction, deep involvement and students in research and professional development, extraordinary advising and mentorship, and most significantly, the development of new graduate programs that have contributed to a national network of Asian American Studies Programs through her leadership at the U and the Committee on Institutional Cooperation, which included the Big Ten and University of Chicago.”

Lee’s scientific background shows through in her use of technologies to teach and connect.

“Jo has been critical in assisting other faculty and graduate students learn about employing various forms of technologies (moodles, blogs, distance learning) to improve communication and community by linking geographically disseminated researchers with each other,” said a professor. “One of her greatest achievements is the introduction of CourseShare technology, which links instructors at the U of M, Ohio State University and University of Illinois with graduate students at other Big Ten universities.”

In addition to her directorship roles, Lee is well known around the U as a compassionate teacher and advocate for students, whether they are her advisees or not. Many graduate students recall times when they just dropped into Lee’s office without appointments and were treated to kind words of advice and encouragement.

“Prof. Lee captures the very best of what graduate education should be,” said a PhD candidate. “She is a gifted scholar, but also the staunchest of supporter and the wisest of leader. Her students are lucky to have her and she is a model for what I hope to achieve in my own career.”