Spouses Dr. Darrin and Whitney Hunt have joined the University of the Ozarks faculty, beginning the 2023 Fall Semester.
Whitney joins Ozarks as an assistant professor of sociology and Darrin as an assistant professor of biology.
The Hunts, who met as undergraduate students at Wayne State University in Michigan, are moving from New York, where Whitney most recently served as a visiting assistant professor at Colgate University and Darrin was a full-time lecturer at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.
Born and raised in Ohio, Whitney spent much of adulthood and higher education in Michigan, earning her bachelor’s degree, master’s degree and Ph.D. in sociology from Wayne State. Her areas of specialty include, gender and sexuality, race/ethnic studies, science and technology, and media and culture.
“I am thrilled to be part of a University community whose mission has always been centered around diverse and inclusive praxis,” Whitney said.
Whitney also has teaching experience as an instructor and lecturer at Monroe County Community College, University of Michigan and Wayne State University, where she was a recipient of the Dr. Sumareh Award for student teaching and activism.
Darrin was born just outside Detroit and earned his bachelor’s degree and Ph.D. from Wayne State. His dual title Ph.D. is in biological sciences and urban sustainability. His areas of academic interests include, aquatic ecology, community ecology, invasive species biology and urban environmental system.
A stream ecologist and invasive species biologist, Darrin said “growing up in the Great Lakes region, where over 180 invasive species have established in its lakes, rivers and wetlands, has informed my research.”
“We are looking forward to starting at the University of the Ozarks this fall,” Darrin said. “Both of us are interested in guiding students towards great careers and preparing them for professional school opportunities.”
The Hunts have two dogs and a cat — Freya, Fred and Frank. Outside of academia, they both enjoy running, hiking, kayaking, listening to music, and spending time with their animals.
Topics: About, Academics, Biology, Faculty Spotlights, Sociology