Strong advocates: UW-River Falls educators honored by Universities of Wisconsin 

Bao Lee, Michelle Parkinson lauded for their efforts to help students who need support 

Dec. 5, 2024 - Two University of Wisconsin-River Falls educators have been recognized by the Universities of Wisconsin for their advocacy on behalf of students in need of support.  
  
Bao Lee, an academic coach in the TRIO Student Support Services office, is one of 12 recipients among Universities of Wisconsin schools to receive the 2024 Outstanding Women of Color in Education Award. The award is given annually to faculty, staff, students or community members to recognize their achievements to advance equity and inclusion for people of color.  
  
Michelle Parkinson, a professor of English Literature, is among 13 to be honored with the 2024 Dr. P.B. Poorman Award for Outstanding Achievement on Behalf of LGBTQ+ People. The award is given annually to LGBTQ+ people or their allies who have created a safer and more inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ people. The award celebrates the memory of Dr. Paula B. Poorman, a highly respected UW-Whitewater faculty member dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ people. 
  
Recipients of both awards were recognized at a ceremony Wednesday in Madison. Each UW university was invited to select nominees for the awards.  
  
Lee draws on her background as a first-generation college student to help current students overcome barriers. She also serves as secretary of the Wisconsin chapter of TRIO professionals. TRIO refers to federal programs that help low-income students access higher education. 
  
“As a first-generation college graduate herself, she is fulfilled knowing she is helping students from similar backgrounds acquire a college education because she believes that college education opens opportunities for personal and professional development,” UWRF Dean of Students Michael Gilmer said of Lee. “She wants her students to know that they do not have to go through college alone.”  
  
Parkinson has co-taught women’s and gender studies, a class she co-created, and has served as women’s and gender studies coordinator. She also teaches a course featuring an emphasis on queer theory and gender studies.  
  
Accolades are nothing new to Parkinson. She was the recipient of the College of Arts and Sciences Excellence in Teaching Award in 2012 and the college’s Excellence in Advising Award in 2013.  
  
“She continues to think of her role as a teacher and leader as an ongoing opportunity to create spaces welcoming to individuals of all gender, sexual, and social identities,” Gilmer said of Parkinson. 
   
UW President Jay Rothman said the awards are a recognition of the many outstanding faculty, staff, and students at the state’s public universities.  
  
“Honorees are helping build a better experience for our students, faculty, and staff,” Rothman said.   

Headshots: Bao Lee (top), Michelle Parkinson (bottom)