UM names Samuels 2019-2020 University Scholar

November 15, 2019

On Oct. 10, 2019, the University of Montevallo celebrated its 123rd Founders’ Day and recognized members of the faculty, staff and alumni communities for their outstanding commitment and dedication to the University.

Dr. Gregory Samuels was selected as the University of Montevallo’s 2019-2020 University Scholar. Samuels was recognized by the University for his outstanding work in the field of education.

Samuels, an associate professor of education at UM, has focused much of his academic and professional work on the intersection of multicultural and social science education. He has presented at various local, regional, national and international conferences on topics ranging from culturally responsive pedagogy, human rights and social justice teaching.

These varied research interests allow Samuels to examine topics of race, racism and activism across the teaching of social studies and allows him to improve social sciences education for students and to give educators the tools to better connect with their students.

Currently, Samuels serves as the co-chair of the Diversity Committee for UM’s College of Education and Human Development. In his position as co-chair, he is able to utilize his research and academic experience to impact the lives of students in the CEHD.

Aside from his position at the University, he serves as the vice president for the Social Sciences Education Consortium and works with the National Association for Multicultural Education.

Samuels is also the co-principal investigator for the GEAR-UP Jefferson County grant, a $25 million award that will help 4,500 students in the Birmingham-Jefferson County area. He will help determine how this funding is spent over the next seven years to increase the post-secondary education outcomes of these students.