Senator Spotlight March 2025

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YOUR NAME: Yun Kang
 

What unit do you represent? 

I am proud to represent the Science and Mathematics group within the School of Applied Sciences and Arts, part of the College of Integrative Sciences and Arts at the Poly Campus.
 

How many years have you served in the Senate? 

This is my third year serving in the Senate since 2022. Additionally, I had the honor of serving during two earlier terms, from 2013 to 2016 and 2017 to 2021.
 

How many years have you been employed at ASU? 

I have been a dedicated full-time faculty member at ASU since 2008, immediately following the completion of my Ph.D. in Mathematics from the School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences at ASU, Tempe Campus.
 

What other institutions have you taught at before coming to ASU?

ASU has been my professional home since the beginning of my career.
 

What is your research and/or creative activities focus? 

My research emphasizes mathematical modeling and nonlinear dynamical systems with interdisciplinary applications across biology, epidemiology, life sciences, and social sciences. By integrating theoretical and empirical approaches, I explore the ecological and evolutionary dynamics of complex adaptive systems, fostering collaboration and generating insights valuable to biologists, ecologists, epidemiologists, and other researchers.
 

Why did you decide to get involved with the Senate? 

Encouraged by my senior colleagues to understand and contribute to university governance, I was elected to serve in the Senate in 2013. It has been an incredibly rewarding experience that has deepened my understanding of how the university operates.
 

Describe what you have learned (or hope to learn) during your time in the Senate?

I have gained a strong appreciation for the importance of clear and structured communication in assemblies, especially through Robert’s Rules of Order. This has enhanced my ability to contribute meaningfully to discussions and decision-making processes.
 

What committees have you participated in, or would like to participate in and what were you able to (or hope to) accomplish? 

I currently serve on the Student Faculty Policy Committee and am honored to chair the CISA College Assembly. Previously, I served on the Committee on Committees, the Governance Grievance Committee, the Grievance Clearinghouse Committee, and as President of the Poly Campus Assembly in 2019. Each role has been an opportunity to drive meaningful change and support the university's mission.
 

What would you say to your peers who might be considering accepting a nomination or nominating himself or herself for a position in the University Senate?

Go for it! Participating in university governance is a rewarding experience. It’s a chance to make a difference, contribute to decision-making, and gain invaluable insights into how the institution functions. You’ll grow both professionally and personally!