Spotlighting Leaders Advancing Black Excellence at PAU
At Palo Alto University (PAU), we are proud to recognize and celebrate the profound contributions of our Black students, faculty, and staff who continue to push the boundaries of education, research, and advocacy. Among them are three leaders—Jammela Ali (Executive Assistant to the Provost), Erika Lambert (Senior Financial Aid Advisor/Outreach Lead), and Dr. Robert Randolph (Director of the Writing Studio) who have continued to advance Black excellence at PAU. Their leadership has shaped PAU’s commitment to cultural awareness, inclusion, and empowerment.
Their work culminated in securing the Promoting Black Excellence and Awareness grant through the Provost Strategic Initiative Grants. This grant funded the establishment of an initiative focused on promoting Black excellence and raising awareness about Black culture, history, and contributions at PAU. That initiative aimed to empower Black individuals, raise cultural consciousness and create lasting connections through scholarships, cultural events, and a dedicated Black Task Force.
In the spirit of this initiative, Jammela Ali, Erika Lambert, and Dr. Robert Randolph have worked to foster community and advocate for equity within PAU. Through their roles at PAU, they have been instrumental in fostering a more inclusive, supportive community for all students, faculty, and staff.
Jammela Ali, Executive Assistant to the Provost
Ms. Ali has been a passionate advocate for increasing equity and inclusion across PAU. With a focus on creating spaces where individuals feel seen and heard, Ms.Ali has been instrumental in building community within the university. She works tirelessly to develop initiatives that support marginalized voices, making PAU a more inclusive and welcoming place for all.
Erika Lambert, Senior Financial Aid Advisor/Outreach Lead
Mrs. Lambert has made an indelible mark on PAU by developing and leading the university's first Financial Literacy course. Through this course, she equips students with essential tools and knowledge to navigate their financial futures. Mrs.Lambert continues to support students by increasing access to financial resources and information, empowering them to make informed decisions that positively impact them.
Dr. Robert Randolph, Director of the Writing Studio
Dr. Randolph, a renowned vernacular scholar and the Director of the Writing Studio at PAU, is a leading force in writing center studies and Black feminist and queer rhetorics. He has contributed immensely to writing center scholarship, including publications in The Writing Center Journal and Composition Studies. Dr. Randolph’s recent project, “A Grammar of Willfulness,” uses the concepts of willfulness and the feminist killjoy to reshape writing center research. At PAU, Dr. Randolph’s creation of the university’s first Writing Studio has provided students with critical support and mentorship, ensuring they have the tools to succeed academically.
Through their work, Ms. Ali, Mrs. Lambert, and Dr. Randolph have established a foundation for advancing Black excellence at PAU. As we continue to build a more inclusive and supportive environment at PAU, we invite you to join us in celebrating and supporting these efforts. Whether through volunteering, sharing your own stories of excellence, or contributing to initiatives focused on equity and inclusion, there are many ways to get involved. Together, we can empower all members of our community to thrive and make a lasting impact.