HAMPTON, Va (May 20, 2025) — Hampton University proudly announces the recipients of the 2025 Presidential Grantmanship Awards, the University’s highest recognition for faculty excellence in securing competitive research funding. This year’s distinguished honorees are Dr. Deidre Gibson, Chair of the Department of Marine and Environmental Science, and Dr. William Moore, Professor of Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences.
Presented annually by the Office of the President, the Presidential Grantmanship Award celebrates faculty members whose research portfolios demonstrate a sustained commitment to scholarly excellence, innovation, and external funding success. Dr. Gibson and Dr. Moore exemplify Hampton University’s standard of academic leadership and forward-thinking discovery.
“Dr. Gibson and Dr. Moore continue to uplift the University’s reputation as a research powerhouse,” said Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams. “Their commitment to advancing knowledge while mentoring the next generation of scholars is a model for the entire Hampton community.”
In addition to the Presidential Awards, Hampton University also recognized four faculty members as recipients of the 2025 Faculty Grant Development Awards. This initiative supports emerging research leaders in developing competitive grant proposals that align with national funding priorities and Hampton’s institutional mission.
The 2025 Faculty Grant Development Award recipients are:
- Dr. Naoufal Lakhssassi, Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences, School of Science
Project Title: Genetic Strategies for Increasing the Nutritional Value of Soybeans
- Dr. Natasha Mavengere, Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences, School of Science
Project Title: Soil Bacteria and the Search for Novel Antibiotics: Harnessing Nature’s Chemical Diversity to Overcome Antimicrobial Resistance
- Dr. Catherine Porter, Assistant Professor of Political Science and History, School of Liberal Arts and Education
Project Title: Local Voices, National Struggles: Women & Congo Independence
- Dr. Mengistu Shukare, Assistant Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry, School of Science
Project Title: Identifying Biological Determinants of Cancer Aggressiveness and Treatment Resistance in African American Derived Cancer Cells
These awards reflect Hampton University’s deep investment in fostering a research environment rooted in innovation, impact, and inclusive excellence.
“As Hampton continues to expand its national research footprint, we remain committed to supporting faculty who are leading transformative projects across the sciences, humanities, and health,” said Dr. Betty Stewart, Executive Vice President and Provost.
ABOUT HAMPTON UNIVERSITY
Hampton University is a Carnegie R2-designated research institution, recognized for its groundbreaking research in atmospheric science, cancer treatment, and cybersecurity. Contributing $530 million annually to the regional and Commonwealth of Virginia economies, Hampton plays a vital role in driving economic development while championing diversity, inclusion, and opportunity. The university was recently named one of the “Best Colleges in America” by Money Magazine and recognized as the “Best Private College” by Coastal Virginia.
Founded in 1868, Hampton University is a close-knit community of learners and educators, representing 44 states and 32 territories, committed to nurturing intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and global citizenship. Visit: www.hamptonu.edu.
Professor John Murray is available for media commentary and interviews. For inquiries, please contact Richelle Payne in the Office of University Relations at 757-727-5253
