Denmark, SC, – Voorhees University proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Zhabiz Golkar as the Jessie Dorsey Endowed Chair Professor, a prestigious recognition bestowed upon her during the Commencement ceremony on May 4, 2024, by President Hopkins. This appointment, effective July 1, underscores Dr. Golkar’s continuing scholarly achievements and distinction.
In her new role, Dr. Golkar will provide leadership to advance the quality and stature of research and development at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Her efforts will significantly contribute to the university’s mission of integrating science and technology to advance knowledge and prepare the next generation of science and technology leaders.
As the Jessie Dorsey Endowed Chair Professor, Dr. Golkar will establish the “Center of Excellence for Research and Program Innovation” at Voorhees University. This center will generate internal and external funding to finance innovative programmatic research and development partnerships and initiatives within and beyond Voorhees University.
Dr. Golkar will collaborate closely with faculty and students on research scholarships and graduate education. She will foster an environment conducive to grantsmanship, facilitate post-award execution, and provide professional development and mentorship opportunities in research for junior faculty. Additionally, she aims to integrate research within academic affairs, leverage the university’s research expertise to grow its research infrastructure and capacity, and support program enhancement in partnership with various university stakeholders.
Dr. Golkar currently serves as a tenured professor of Biology and the Dean of the School of Science, Technology, Health, and Human Services at Voorhees University. She is an active member of several prestigious organizations, including the International Society for Cell & Gene Therapy, the American Society for Microbiology, and the National Association for the Advancement of Science. Dr. Golkar was distinguished as an educator of excellence by the South Carolina Council of Independent Colleges and Universities, receiving the Excellence in Teaching Award in 2017.
Among her extensive training includes advanced studies in “Genetics and Genomics” at the School of Medicine, Stanford University, “Bioethics” at Georgetown University, and most recently, “Strategies in AI” from the University of Oxford.
Voorhees University is honored to have Dr. Zhabiz Golkar in this esteemed position and looks forward to the significant contributions she will continue to make in advancing research, education, and innovation.
