Dr. Kevin Michael Foster is an anthropologist who takes pride not only in his widely published academic research, but also in applying that research to community service. Through his work and myriad volunteer efforts, Foster aims to serve African American students and extend the reach of black studies in general. “I’m committed to scholarship that has direct impact on broader communities,” he said. “We’re trying to push the envelope on community-engaged scholarship and generate new insights.”

Foster was the first DDCE faculty fellow and is the founding director of the Institute for Community, University and School Partnerships and a co-founder of COBRA, an academic development and leadership program for boys in high school. He was awarded the 2006 Outstanding Faculty Volunteer Award for his service. His primary academic appointment is within the African and African Diaspora Studies Department, and he is a member of the College of Education Curriculum and Instruction Graduate Faculty.

“I didn’t get into scholarship or into academia just to sit and read,” Foster said. “I got in to do research that would help transform communities.”