Eight faculty members at the University at Buffalo have been named SUNY Distinguished Professors — the highest rank in the State University of New York System. Four of these appointments went to women.
Suzanne S. Dickerson is a professor in the School of Nursing. A senior scholar in hermeneutic phenomenology, Professor Dickerson directed the International Institute for Hermeneutic Phenomenology for six years. She co-authored the book Doing Hermeneutic Phenomenological Research: A Practical Guide (SAGE Publications, 2020). Dr. Dickerson is a graduate of Niagara University in New York, where she majored n nursing. She holds a master’s degree in adult health and a doctor of nursing practice degree from the University at Buffalo.
Melanie Green is a professor and chair of the department of communication. Dr. Green studies how stories can change human behavior. A key focus of her research is the concept of “transportation into a narrative world,” a reference to the immersive experience individuals have when deeply absorbed in a story. Dr. Green is a graduate of Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Florida, where she majored in psychology and literature. She holds a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in psychology from Ohio State University.
Maria Kraimer is the Donald S. Carmichael Professor of Organizational Behavior. She serves as chair of the School of Management’s department of organization and human resources. Her works span three different research streams: expatriates’ adjustment methods and effectiveness, career management, and relationships at work. Professor Kraimer holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She earned a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in human resources management and organizational behavior from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Pauline Mendola is a professor and chair of the department of epidemiology and environmental health in the School of Public Health and Health Professions. She is a pioneer in environmental and perinatal epidemiology whose research has transformed scientists’ understanding of environmental risk factors for adverse pregnancy outcomes and pediatric health disparities. Professor Mendola holds a bachelor’s degree in social sciences and a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in epidemiology, all from the University at Buffalo.