Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies News
WGSS Faculty Recognized during Research and Entrepreneurship Week
Faculty members associated with Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies (WGSS) were recognized as Outstanding Researchers and Scholars during Research & Entrepreneurship Week 2025.
WGSS Connects with Prospective Students at Fall Preview Events
At the University at Albany's Fall Preview on November 1, 2025, Dr. Janell Hobson discussed the field's unique approach to AI, innovative teaching methods, academic programs, internships, community engagement, and alumni achievements with prospective students.
Loretta J. Ross to Speak at UAlbany: “Calling In” as an Alternative To “Calling Out”
The Department of Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies is pleased to co-sponsor the visit of Loretta J. Ross — renowned activist, author and professor — for an inspiring and timely campus conversation at the University at Albany. The event will draw from her recent book, "Calling In: How to Start Making Change with Those You’d Rather Cancel." Monday, September 22, 2025 at 3 p.m. in the Campus Center West Multipurpose Room on the UAlbany Uptown Campus.
“Youth Activism and Social Justice,” a Public Talk by Dr. Hava Rachel Gordon
The Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies Department is pleased to host Dr. Hava Rachel Gordon, an award winning expert in youth activism. Her presentation “Youth Activism and Social Justice” will take place on Thursday, September 18, 2025, 4:30 p.m. at Humanities 354 at the UAlbany Uptown Campus. Dr. Gordon’s talk explores the potential of youth activism to spark political, cultural, and institutional change. From climate and labor movements to struggles for gender and LGBTQ justice, this public talk highlights how young activists have transformed society and how they continue to shape its future. Based on Dr. Gordon’s new book, Youth Activism, the event invites a broader conversation about social change today.
WGSS Core Faculty Member Dr. Janell Hobson Named Grand Marshal at UAlbany
The Department of Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies is proud to announce that Professor Janell Hobson, WGSS Core Faculty, has been named the University at Albany’s Grand Marshal for the 2025–2026 academic year. This distinguished honor recognizes Professor Hobson’s outstanding scholarship, leadership, and service to the university community. As Grand Marshal, she presided over the University’s 2025 Convocation and will conclude the academic year by leading the 2026 Commencement. We extend our warmest congratulations to Professor Hobson on this well-deserved recognition.
Dr. Nancy Newman Honored by the International Alliance for Women Musicians
The International Alliance for Women Musicians selected Dr. Newman (Professor of Music & Theater & Joint WGSS Faculty member) for a prestigious award. Her article, “#AlmaToo: The Art of Being Believed,” received the 2024 IAWM Pauline Alderman Award for Outstanding Scholarship. Congratulations Dr. Newman!
Noteworthy: Research grants, awards and publications
The latest developments on University at Albany faculty and staff who are receiving research grants, awards and other noteworthy attention.
WGSS Spring Celebration Honors Students, Mentors & Community Partners
On May 7, 2025, the Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies community at UAlbany came together to celebrate the accomplishments of its students and express gratitude to their mentors. Our Spring Celebration honored graduating majors and MA students, the Teaching Collective, student interns, community partners, the Gamma Mu chapter of “Triota” Honors Society, and this year’s award recipients.