Who is Michael Mungin from Jeopardy? Librarian’s Age, Job, Family & More

Michael Mungin is a passionate and experienced Research and Instruction Librarian based at the University of Washington Bothell, where he has been serving the university since July 2017. In his role, Michael specializes in business, psychology, and sociology, providing essential research support and fostering information literacy among both undergraduate and graduate students. His dedication extends beyond simply assisting students with their academic needs; he is deeply involved in developing collaborations with faculty, managing library collections, and offering specialized reference services to support various academic departments.

Michael’s commitment to supporting academic research and information literacy has been a cornerstone of his career. His role at the University of Washington Bothell allows him to work closely with students and faculty, ensuring they have the resources and support necessary to succeed in their studies and research endeavors. His work is a reflection of his belief in the important role libraries play in facilitating learning, personal growth, and the advancement of knowledge.

Previous Academic Experience and Contributions

Before joining the University of Washington Bothell, Michael worked at James Madison University as a Psychology Liaison Librarian and Associate Professor from January 2011 to July 2017. During his time there, he focused on providing research support and reference services to both students and faculty within the psychology department. His experience in this role helped shape his expertise in academic librarianship, particularly in the areas of research assistance and specialized support for faculty and students within specific disciplines.

At both James Madison University and the University of Washington Bothell, Michael has demonstrated his unwavering commitment to advancing academic libraries and providing top-notch resources and support to students and faculty alike. His experience in multiple academic settings highlights his adaptability and dedication to improving the resources available to learners.

Advocacy for QTPOC Representation in Media

Beyond his academic work, Michael is also deeply involved in the intersectional experiences of queer and trans people of color (QTPOC). He created the project An Intersectional Lens: Towards a Queer and Trans People of Color (QTPOC) Film Canon, which aims to highlight films that center the lived experiences of QTPOC. This project, funded by the 2018 Carnegie-Whitney Grant, was well-received for its unique focus on QTPOC representation, a group often marginalized in mainstream media. Michael’s work in this area reflects his commitment to promoting inclusivity and ensuring that underrepresented communities are given a voice in the media.

His dedication to advancing QTPOC representation is not only a personal passion but also a professional one, as he continues to create and support resources that help shine a light on marginalized communities. This project is a key example of how Michael uses his platform as a librarian and educator to advocate for diversity and inclusivity.

Academic Background and Professional Interests

Michael holds a Master of Library & Information Science (MLIS) from the University of Washington (2010) and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the same institution (2006). His educational background has provided him with the tools and knowledge to excel in his career as a librarian, where he combines his passion for education with his commitment to helping students succeed.

In addition to his work in libraries, Michael’s professional interests extend to virtual reference assessment, equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) accountability in libraries, and media librarianship. His ongoing professional development in these areas reflects his desire to create a more inclusive and accessible library system for all individuals, regardless of background or identity.

Personal Interests and Community Engagement

Outside of his professional work, Michael has a strong passion for cinema, especially films that highlight marginalized experiences. His love for film aligns with his advocacy work in QTPOC representation, as he continues to explore and share films that offer unique perspectives on underrepresented communities. Additionally, Michael enjoys playing and watching tennis, an activity that provides him with a balance of physical exercise and personal enjoyment.

After spending seven years away, Michael has recently returned to Seattle, where he is rediscovering the city and its local communities. His return to Seattle underscores his commitment to staying engaged with his surroundings and continuing his work in education, advocacy, and library services.