Clark School LGBTQ+ liaison Ambi Narula awarded Luke S. Jensen Endowed Scholarship

Ambi Narula, communications and program specialist for the Robert E. Fischell Institute for Biomedical Devices, a master’s in management student at the Robert H. Smith School of Business, and LGBTQ+ liaison for the A. James Clark School of Engineering, was recently awarded the Luke S. Jensen Endowed Scholarship.

Presented by the LGBTQ+ Equity Center, the scholarship recognizes undergraduate and graduate students committed to advancing civil rights for and preventing discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals. The award provides $1,500 for the spring semester. Recipients are also invited to attend a celebratory lunch with Luke Jensen in February or March and are recognized at UMD’s Lavender Graduation in May.

“I’m really proud to be acknowledged for my passion for diversity, equity and inclusion,” Narula said.

As the Clark School’s LGBTQ+ liaison, Narula serves as the point of contact for queer-inclusive programming in the engineering community. She organizes engagement opportunities and collaborates with Clark School leadership to foster a welcoming, safe and enriching environment. During the spring 2025 semester, Narula will hold office hours every Thursday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in room 5102-D of A. James Clark Hall to support the school’s queer community.

“Ambi is a role model for all of us, showing how one can advocate for and support fellow individuals on our campus, including the LGBTQ+ community,” said Akua Asa-Awuku, the Clark School’s associate dean for diversity, equity and inclusion, professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering, and Fischell Institute affiliate fellow. “Ambi has raised the bar for our efforts in many ways—not just talking the talk, but walking the walk.”

DEI has always had a special place in Narula’s heart. As a D.C.-based comedian and comedy producer, Narula faced discrimination as an underrepresented minority at open mics and shows. As a result, she vowed to make a difference not just in comedy, but at the university.

“Being recognized as a Jensen Scholarship recipient is a great honor and symbolizes the fearlessly forward inclusion efforts our students champion,” said Kristopher Oliveira, director of the LGBTQ+ Equity Center. “We are so proud of Ambi and her accomplishments and are grateful for her contributions to the university community.”

After earning her master’s degree, Narula plans to pursue a doctorate in business administration from the Smith School with a continued focus on diversity, equity and inclusion.

Published January 31, 2025