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LaWanna Gilbert-Bell named director of ULM Office of Sponsored Programs and Research

Published March 16, 2021

The University of Louisiana Monroe announces LaWanna Gilbert-Bell, M.Ed., has been named director of the Office of Sponsored Programs and Research.

 

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Bell has been with OSPR for more than 12 years, most recently as associate director. As the director, Bell will continue to focus on the research needs of faculty, staff, and students. Her role includes striving to increase the number of successfully funded grants ULM receives and maintaining compliance with all federal and state regulations.

 

“I am truly humbled and honored to be chosen to continue to serve the ULM family. My belief is that ULM has the best students, staff, and faculty. My mindset each day is to assist each individual with realizing and developing their research passions with the ultimate goal of receiving a grant award or securing a funded contract,” Bell said. “My desire is to alleviate as much of the stress and anxiety that is experienced during the development and submission of a project proposal. I respect and view each individual, their ideas, hard work, dedication, and effort as important and valued.”

 

In February, ULM President Ron Berry announced the appointment of John W. Sutherlin, Ph.D., as Chief Innovation and Research Officer, to drive and maximize revenues from research, contracts, and external partnerships, promote faculty research and expand student learning opportunities from innovation and research.

 

“Lawanna was a perfect fit for what OSPR needs to move forward. She has the experience and training, and has shown remarkable ability across all aspects of the OSPR. From pre-awards, to developing grants and budgets to ensuring compliance after the grant is awarded, Ms. Bell will lead that office into new areas and develop new opportunities for students, staff, and faculty,” Sutherlin said.

 

Bell is a ULM alumna, holding a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Master of Education, Educational Technology Leadership.


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