Hired in 1989 in the Department of Afro-American Studies, Dr. Michael Thornton has dedicated over 30 years to teaching and service at UW-Madison. Professor Thornton is an esteemed and beloved member of the Asian American Studies Program and he holds a special place in the Program’s history. He served as the director of the Asian American Studies Program from 1993-94 after founding director, Dr. Amy Ling, completed her first term. Following Ling’s passing in August 1999, Professor Thornton prevented the folding and disarray of our Program by stepping up as the Program’s director from 2000-2003. He has been with the Program since its inception and has nurtured and sustained its growth. We exist because of his dedication, commitment, and advocacy. Professor Thornton is a distinguished teacher/mentor, a tireless champion of service learning, and the author of 57 journal articles!
The Program in Asian American Studies would like dedicate this video tribute to Professor Michael Thornton. Thank you for everything you have done for our Program, our campus, and our community.
Video by: Noah Laroia-Nguyen