In a groundbreaking achievement, Oluwami (Wami) Dosunmu-Ogunbi has become the first black woman to earn a Doctorate in Robotics from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, in the United States. Her remarkable accomplishment is a personal triumph and a significant milestone for diversity and representation in robotics.
Wami’s journey to this historic achievement was marked by determination, resilience, and the invaluable support of mentors and advocates. As the daughter of Nigerian immigrants, she brought a unique perspective and unwavering dedication to her studies.
Despite encountering initial setbacks, including failing her qualifying exams in the mechanical engineering PhD program at U-M, Wami persevered with the guidance of her mentor, Chad Jenkins, a professor of robotics. Recognizing her potential, Jenkins mobilized support within the academic community to ensure that Wami had the resources and encouragement needed to succeed.
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With the support of Professor Jessy Grizzle, another key figure in the field of robotics at U-M, Wami found a new path forward. Grizzle welcomed her into his lab as his final PhD student, providing her with the mentorship and environment she needed to thrive.
Wami’s doctoral research focused on controls with applications in bipedal locomotion, a challenging and innovative area of robotics. Despite working with older equipment and facing technical limitations, she demonstrated remarkable creativity and resilience in her work.
Throughout her academic journey, Wami was a dedicated researcher and an active community builder and mentor. She earned recognition for her contributions to diversity and inclusion in robotics, receiving awards such as the MLK Spirit Award from the College of Engineering.
Beyond her academic accomplishments, Wami is a passionate communicator, dedicated to sharing her knowledge and inspiring the next generation of engineers and scientists. Her commitment to excellence, coupled with her advocacy for diversity and inclusion, exemplifies the values of the University of Michigan and inspires aspiring scholars around the world.
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As Wami prepares to embark on the next phase of her career, she leaves behind a legacy of achievement and empowerment. Her groundbreaking achievement as the first black woman to earn a PhD in Robotics at U-M is a testament to the power of perseverance, mentorship, and the pursuit of excellence in the face of adversity.