Professor Greta Friedemann-Sánchez is this year's recipient of the University of Minnesota President’s Community-Engaged Scholar Award. It is the highest honor the University gives annually to one faculty or staff member for exemplary community-engaged scholarship that embodies the University's definition of public engagement.

The nominating committee praised Friedemann-Sánchez's commitment to in-depth research methods that foster connections with the subjects of her work, leading to "a level of impact that few scholars achieve."

"Rather than concluding her research with publication of peer-reviewed papers or technical reports, she then engages in the policy process, collaborating with victims, advocates, administrators, and policy-makers to achieve legislative and institutional change. The fruits of her work are outcomes that improve the lives of everyday people in the US and abroad."

The committee noted that she also brings those engaged research methods to her teaching, illustrating to her students how careful design of qualitative research studies can empower the voices of the marginalized and build evidence for social change. 

Friedemann-Sánchez will be honored at an awards event to be held this coming fall.