A Nigerian-born engineer, Oluwami “Wami” Dosunmu-Ogunbi, has made history by becoming the first Black woman to earn a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Robotics from the University of Michigan, marking a significant milestone in engineering and robotics research.
Dosunmu-Ogunbi, who graduated in 2024, was also selected to deliver the University of Michigan’s commencement address, where she reflected on the role of mentors, advocates and community support in her academic journey.
Speaking at the commencement ceremony, she encouraged fellow graduates to embrace collaboration and remain committed to creating positive change through their work.
“I do not stand here on my own two feet alone,” she said. “None of us got here by our individual merit alone,” acknowledging the support she received throughout her educational journey.
According to the University of Michigan, Dosunmu-Ogunbi’s doctoral research focused on advancing robotic locomotion, particularly developing algorithms that enable bipedal robots to climb stairs and navigate challenging environments more effectively. Her dissertation, titled Ascending New Heights: Enhancing Bipedal Robotic Locomotion through Stair Climbing, explored innovative approaches to improving robot mobility.
In the dedication of her dissertation, she wrote: “For all the little Black girls who were told that they could not climb… let them witness your ascension,” a statement that has been widely praised as an inspiring message of perseverance and representation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Born to Nigerian immigrant parents, Dosunmu-Ogunbi earned a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign before completing a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, a master’s degree in Robotics and ultimately her PhD in Robotics at the University of Michigan.
Her achievement has drawn widespread recognition in Nigeria and internationally, with many describing it as a landmark moment for diversity in robotics and engineering. The University of Michigan noted that her accomplishment underscores the importance of inclusion and mentorship in expanding opportunities for underrepresented groups in STEM fields.
Following her doctoral studies, Dosunmu-Ogunbi has continued her career in academia, focusing on robotics, engineering education and mentoring the next generation of engineers, while advocating for greater participation of women and minorities in science and technology.
