Janice Welburn, dean of university libraries at Marquette University, is the 2011 ACRL Academic/Research Librarian of the Year.

Welburn has devoted countless time and energy mentoring new librarians. She has supported, assisted and inspired a generation to become active and dedicated members of the profession. Welburn’s commitment to mentoring and diversity makes her a tireless advocate for the profession and serves as a model for early career librarians. Her example encourages others to actively mentor new professionals and serve the profession through ACRL and ALA. Welburn’s commitment to diversity has actively contributed to increasing the numbers of successful academic librarians from underrepresented communities.