Millennium Scholars Program Assistant Director, Office of the Provost

Dr. Latisha Franklin became an Assistant Program Director for the Penn State Millennium Scholars Program in July of 2023. Prior to this position, she received her Doctor of Philosophy in the Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Molecular Biology program at Penn State. Dr. Franklin received her B.S. in Biology minoring in Chemistry from Dillard University.  

As a graduate student, Dr. Franklin’s research interests include promoting belonging in STEM fields and the association between muscle function and metabolism. Her research has led to local and international recognition. Dr. Franklin’s passion led to being awarded the Paul Robeson Cultural Center Pioneer Award, Eberly College of Science Climate and Diversity Award, and the Stephanie Danette Preston Service Award. Since graduating, Dr. Franklin has co-authored publications in several academic journals including The American Journal of Physiology and PLOS Genetics. She often engages with faculty and research mentors to support enriching research experiences for scholars. She has also served on interview and admissions committees with the Paul Robeson Cultural Center and Ronald E. McNair Program, respectively. 

Dr. Franklin also works with campus recreation teaching Barre and Yoga classes as well as leading workshops that engage fitness instructors in mentoring and inclusive practices. She was also a member of the 2020 Penn State Homecoming Court and the 2019 University Park Student Fee Board. 

Contact Dr. Latisha Franklin at lpf113@psu.edu