Spartan Profiles: Tammy Mann

TAMMY MANN:  MAKING A DIFFERENCE

           One key component of the United Negro College Fund, the nation’s largest minority education organization, is its Frederick D. Patterson Research Institute, whose mission is to improve the educational opportunities and outcomes of minorities at UNCF’s 39 private historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). 

           Tammy L. Mann, MA ’90, PhD ’94, who boasts 20 years experience in the field, has been named the institute’s new executive director.  “I’m thrilled,” says Mann, who was previously deputy executive director of Zero to Three, a nonprofit organization in Washington, DC.  “I’ve always been interested in helping children achieve success in post-secondary education and this platform provides an opportunity to connect the dots and look across that pipeline.” 

           Born in Louisiana, Tammy grew up in Detroit and considers herself a Michiganian.  After graduating from Atlanta’s Spelman College, America’s oldest historically-black college for women, Tammy wanted to go to graduate school in psychology.  She selected MSU over the University of Michigan.  “In weighing the two programs, it seemed that the clinical program at MSU offered more flexibility,” recalls Tammy, who was awarded a fellowship by the Committee on Institutional Cooperation.  “I’m glad I did, because my interest shifted.  My MSU experience was enjoyable and beneficial.  I’m very grateful.” 

           Tammy cites many people at MSU, especially Hiram Fitzgerald, associate provost for University Outreach and Engagement, who was then a professor of developmental psychology.  “He took me under his wing and gave me great guidance,” says Tammy.  On her new job, Tammy says, “I look forward to making contributions that will ensure that more students are prepared to enter and successfully complete postsecondary education and thus meet a crucial and increasing national demand for college graduates from diverse backgrounds.”