In July 2023, Dr. Oluwami Dosunmu-Ogunbi made history by becoming the first Black woman to earn a PhD in Robotics from the University of Michigan. This remarkable achievement is a milestone not just for her personally, but also for diversity in STEM. Her journey, however, extends far beyond this historic accomplishment. In addition to completing her doctorate, Dr. Dosunmu-Ogunbi was honored to deliver speeches at three major commencement ceremonies: The College of Engineering Graduate Student Commencement, the University-wide Commencement, and the Black Celebratory.
Reflecting on her journey, Dr. Dosunmu-Ogunbi highlights a transformation that underscores her dedication and resilience. She candidly shares that writing and speaking were once her weakest areas. As a child, she struggled with these essential skills, which today are at the heart of her success. The turning point came with the support of two exceptional teachers, Renee Summers and Katherine Wilson, who nurtured her love for reading and writing. With their encouragement, what started as a challenge became a source of strength. Dr. Dosunmu-Ogunbi now thrives as a powerful orator, capable of delivering speeches that move and inspire audiences as large as 70,000 people.
Dr. Dosunmu-Ogunbi’s story is one of perseverance and growth, and it resonates deeply with the broader mission she has embraced: promoting diversity and inclusivity in engineering. As a field that shapes the future, engineering must reflect the diversity of the world it serves. Dr. Dosunmu-Ogunbi is committed to fostering a future where engineering is inclusive, sustainable, and compassionate. Her vision is clear: to cultivate well-rounded engineers who not only excel technically but are also driven by a sense of responsibility to the global community.
This vision is central to her next step. Dr. Dosunmu-Ogunbi is set to join the prestigious faculty of Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology as a Visiting Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering department for the 2024-2025 academic year. At Rose-Hulman, widely regarded for its engineering programs, she will have the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues who share her passion for nurturing engineers that embody both excellence and empathy. Dr. Dosunmu-Ogunbi is excited about the prospect of engaging with students and faculty in a setting where her values and aspirations align so closely with the institution’s mission.
In addition to her role at Rose-Hulman, Dr. Dosunmu-Ogunbi is preparing to return to the academic job market for the following year. She is actively seeking faculty positions that align with her expertise and vision for developing globally responsible engineers. As she navigates this next chapter of her career, she welcomes referrals and recommendations for opportunities that will allow her to continue her work in shaping the future of engineering.
Dr. Dosunmu-Ogunbi’s story, shared on LinkedIn, reflects not only her personal achievements but also her unwavering commitment to advancing diversity in STEM. Her journey is a testament to the impact of resilience, mentorship, and a clear vision of the future. As she continues to break barriers and inspire others, Dr. Dosunmu-Ogunbi is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the field of robotics and beyond.