Ilsa Lottes
Ilsa Lottes is a retired Professor of Sociology at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, where she dedicated nearly 39 years to teaching, research, and mentoring students. Her academic work focused on research methods, measurement, and evaluation, with a strong commitment to social justice and human rights issues. Throughout her career, she championed diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives on campus, fostering an environment where students from all backgrounds could thrive.
Dr. Lottes earned her Ph.D. in Measurement and Evaluation Techniques in Experimental Research from the University of Pennsylvania and an M.S. in Mathematics from Purdue University. Her interdisciplinary expertise has informed her scholarly work, emphasizing rigorous methodology combined with a deep concern for ethical and equitable outcomes in research and education. She has been recognized for her dedication to student success and her ability to translate complex concepts into meaningful learning experiences.
Since retiring, Ilsa has continued her advocacy for human rights and social justice through writing and public engagement. She is the author of Quality of Life and Human Rights Policies in the U.S., which examines the impact of political policies on human rights and incorporates principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion. A passionate educator and lifelong learner, she remains active in the academic and human rights communities, working to promote understanding, equity, and meaningful change both locally and globally.
• University of Pennsylvania
• Purdue University
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my mother, who taught me the value of generosity and giving back. Her example inspired me to approach my work and life with compassion, dedication, and a commitment to helping others succeed.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received was to “publish, publish, publish.” It taught me the importance of sharing my work, contributing to my field, and consistently putting my research and ideas out into the world.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering my field to read widely and learn from a variety of perspectives. I also recommend getting involved in different initiatives and community projects to discover where their skills and passions can make the greatest impact.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in my field right now is helping people recognize the importance of human rights. There’s a lot of work to do in raising awareness, advocating for equitable policies, and fostering a culture that values dignity and justice for all.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life center on the belief that everyone has fundamental human rights, and it’s our responsibility to ensure those rights are respected and accessible to all.