Trailblazing Black Woman in Robotics: Dr. Oluwami Dosunmu-Ogunbi’s Inspiring Journey.
Dr. Oluwami Dosunmu-Ogunbi is an accomplished scholar, dedicated educator, and inspiring author. She stands as a trailblazer in academia, making history as the first Black woman to earn a Ph.D. in Robotics from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Her groundbreaking journey is a testament to resilience, mentorship, and the power of breaking barriers, and her story resonates far beyond the walls of academia.
Early Life and Family Background
Oluwami was born to Nigerian immigrant parents, Adedoyin Dosunmu Ogunbi and Sesi Dosunmu Ogunbi. Her father, Dr. Adedoyin, serves as the Medical Director at Duchess International Hospital in Lagos, Nigeria, and is an Assistant Professor at the University of Alabama Birmingham. Her mother, Sesi, is a pediatric gastroenterology specialist. This supportive and accomplished family background instilled in Oluwami a strong foundation for success.
Academic Achievements and Research Focus
Dr. Dosunmu-Ogunbi’s academic credentials are exceptional. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, graduating with honors in 2017. She then pursued advanced studies at the University of Michigan Ann Arbor, obtaining a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering in 2020, followed by a Master’s degree and Ph.D. in Robotics in 2021 and 2024, respectively.
Currently, Dr. Dosunmu-Ogunbi is a Visiting Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology. Her research focuses on controls, particularly in the field of bipedal locomotion and engineering education. In her dissertation, titled “Ascending New Heights: Enhancing Bipedal Robotic Locomotion through Stair Climbing,” she explored innovative ways to improve robotic movement. Her dedication to advancing robotics has not only contributed to the field’s body of knowledge but has also opened doors for future researchers.
Career Highlights
Oluwami’s professional journey includes significant contributions as an educator and mentor. She served as a Graduate Student Instructor at the University of Michigan from 2019 to 2020. During her undergraduate years, she was the Lead Engineering Learning Assistant for the Illinois Engineering First-Year Experience (IEFX) program and held the role of Sand Casting Chair for Pi Tau Sigma, the mechanical engineering honor society. Additionally, she was a student mentor and leader in the Morrill Engineering Program, which focuses on empowering African American, Hispanic, and Native American engineering students.
Her leadership and mentorship efforts have extended into her current role as a Visiting Assistant Professor at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, where she continues to inspire and educate the next generation of engineers. On April 6, 2024, Oluwami was inducted into the Edward Alexander Bouchet Graduate Honor Society (Bouchet Society), a prestigious network named after the first African American doctoral recipient in the United States (Physics, Yale University, 1876).
Overcoming Challenges and Breaking Barriers
Navigating academia as a person at the intersection of numerous visible and invisible identities, Dr. Dosunmu-Ogunbi has faced significant challenges. Early in her journey, she was expelled from her first Ph.D. program. However, her perseverance, coupled with the unwavering support of mentors, enabled her to overcome systemic barriers. She emerged stronger, eventually making history and solidifying her place as a leader and role model.
Her journey is a source of inspiration to many, particularly young Black girls who may aspire to careers in STEM. In her dissertation, she dedicated her work to them, writing, “For all the little Black girls who were told that they could not climb…let them witness your ascension.” This powerful message encapsulates her commitment to paving the way for future generations, demonstrating that while she may be the first, she certainly will not be the last.
Passion for Education and Mentorship
As an educator at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Dr. Dosunmu-Ogunbi is deeply committed to fostering an inclusive learning environment. Her focus on engineering education underscores her belief in empowering students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, to excel in STEM fields. She combines her technical expertise with a passion for mentorship, encouraging her students to push boundaries and pursue their dreams.
Her dedication to education extends beyond the classroom. In 2024, she was inducted into the Edward Alexander Bouchet Graduate Honor Society, an elite network of scholars committed to diversity and excellence in doctoral education. This honor recognizes her significant achievements in scholarship, leadership, character, service, and advocacy. Dr. Dosunmu-Ogunbi exemplifies these qualities, making her a role model for aspiring scholars.
Awards and Recognition
Dr. Dosunmu-Ogunbi’s contributions have been widely recognized. In addition to her induction into the Bouchet Honor Society, she received the prestigious MLK Spirit Award for Mentoring and Inspiration in 2024. This award celebrates her commitment to advancing social justice and inspiring her peers, faculty, staff, and the broader community. Her leadership and dedication to fostering an inclusive academic environment are truly exemplary.
Author of Young Adult Science Fiction Novels
Beyond her academic and professional accomplishments, Dr. Dosunmu-Ogunbi is a talented author. She has published two young adult science fiction novels as part of The Zone Chronicles series. The first book, Naga Ceyon: You are Never Alone, was originally published in 2013 during her final year of high school. The following year, as she completed her first year of undergraduate studies, she published the second book, Notori: Be Courageous.
Her work gained significant attention, leading to the re-publication of Naga Ceyon: You are Never Alone in 2015. These novels follow the journey of a young girl who embraces the path of a warrior, embodying themes of courage, resilience, and self-discovery. Through her storytelling, Dr. Dosunmu-Ogunbi inspires young readers to navigate life’s challenges with determination and strength. Copies of her books are available for purchase, and interested readers can contact her via email at wami@umich.edu.
A Voice for Change and Inspiration
Dr. Dosunmu-Ogunbi’s journey to becoming a professor and role model has highlighted the transformative power of sharing one’s story. She leverages her unique experiences to inspire and motivate others, emphasizing the importance of representation and mentorship in breaking systemic barriers. As a speaker at TEDxDetroit 2024, she shared her insights and experiences, further solidifying her impact as a thought leader.
Her vision for the future is rooted in creating pathways for others to succeed. By sharing her journey, she demonstrates that success is attainable, regardless of the obstacles. She is committed to ensuring that her achievements serve as a foundation for future generations to build upon.
Conclusion
Dr. Oluwami Dosunmu-Ogunbi’s life and career are a testament to perseverance, excellence, and the transformative power of mentorship. As the first Black woman to earn a Ph.D. in Robotics from the University of Michigan, she has broken barriers and set a powerful example for aspiring scholars. Her work as an educator, researcher, and author showcases her multifaceted talents and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact.
Through her dedication to education, mentorship, and storytelling, Dr. Dosunmu-Ogunbi is not only shaping the future of robotics but also inspiring countless individuals to pursue their dreams. Her journey serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder that with determination, support, and resilience, anything is possible.
To learn about Dr. Dosunmu-Ogunbi’s outstanding achievements and connect with her, follow the links below.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oluwami_Dosunmu-Ogunbi
https://www.linkedin.com/in/oluwami-dosunmu-ogunbi/
