Microbiology Professor Awarded Honorary Doctorate from Canadian University

Barbara Iglewski, longtime Professor of Microbiology and Immunology, received an honorary Doctor of Science degree from the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada at their convocation on June 12. Iglewski, nominated for the award by the University’s faculty, has spent her career studying how bacteria cause disease and is an unquestioned leader in the field; she’s published more than 150 papers and book chapters and has served as an editor of several books, including the Encyclopedia of Microbiology. She’s also been awarded numerous national awards for her research.  

Iglewski’s leadership extends well beyond the lab. She was the first female chair hired in the School of Medicine and Dentistry and headed the Department of Microbiology and Immunology for more than 20 years. She also served as Vice Provost for Research and Graduate Education at the University in the late 90’s and currently serves as Director of International Programs at the Medical Center, helping build relationships with institutions in China, India and other countries.

Stephen Dewhurst, Ph.D., who took over as Chair of Microbiology and Immunology when Iglewski stepped down in 2009, says this is the first time such an award has been given to a faculty member on his watch.

Iglewski’s role as an extraordinary educator, mentor and advocate for women in science also contributed to her selection for this honor. She’s a past recipient of a University of Rochester Medical Center Lifetime Mentor Award (2009) and a Susan B. Anthony Lifetime Achievement Award (2001), given to women who have used their experience and skills to help other women advance as leaders. 

Congratulations, Dr. Iglewski!