Each year, Colorado State University honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to diversity, inclusive excellence, and multiculturalism into their professions and the multicultural community.

Mark Brown, associate professor of clinical sciences and director for TILT and the Office for Undergraduate Research and Artistry, was the sole faculty winner of the Multicultural Staff and Faculty Network Distinguished Service Award this year. He was nominated by the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences Diversity and Inclusion Committee, whose members said Brown demonstrates the excellence of leadership and sustained commitment to the advancing of diversity and social justice within and outside the university as a researcher, teacher and mentor.

Brown’s research focuses on neglected diseases and the cultural drivers of disease. He actively pursues strategies to alleviate health disparities associated with diseases impacting underserved populations that are unlikely to be profitable markets.

He is also heavily engaged in service towards student engagement through teaching and mentoring. Brown teaches undergraduate and graduate students, and includes cultural and societal relevance when teaching complex concepts and mechanisms in the sciences to develop culturally competent and inclusive leaders in the biomedical sciences.

Melissa Edwards, associate director for the Office for Undergraduate Research and Artistry at CSU, described Brown as a “champion for diversity,” and said she would not have her Ph.D., if not for him.

“Dr. Brown’s unyielding support, understanding and guidance led me to completing my doctorate versus dropping out,” she wrote in a nomination letter. “Due to his direct mentorships and constant support, I was the first black woman to complete a Ph.D. in Cell and Molecular Biology, here at CSU.”