Ben Ford, professor of anthropology, has been selected as IUP’s 2023–24 Distinguished University Professor. This is a title he and past recipients of the award will hold for life.
A member of the faculty since 2009, Ford has chaired the Department of Anthropology for six years. His scholarship has focused on archaeology involving human interactions with oceans, lakes, and rivers and on historical archaeology, specializing in the frontier period of western Pennsylvania.
During his year as Distinguished University Professor, Ford will launch a project called Heritage Futures, which aims “to leverage heritage to heal past wrongs and foster a healthier future.” Involving students in the project, he said, will help them build research skills and become more caring and productive members of society.
