Janet Hyunju Clarke has been recognized for her dedication to the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community at Stony Brook University. On June 30, Clarke, who serves as associate dean of research and learning at Stony Brook University Libraries, was named a 2025 Library Journal "Mover and Shaker" during a ceremony in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was honored for co-founding the university's AAPI Mentorship Network and AAPI Heritages Committee.
Clarke expressed her commitment to her work and pride in receiving the award, which highlights her as "one of 50 people shaping the future of libraries." The Library Journal noted that before Clarke's involvement, there were no campus clubs or celebrations open to all students related to AAPI heritage.
"I’ve always been in awe of the people who’ve won this annual award," Clarke said. "It was wonderful to stand on the shoulders of all those who have gone ahead of me and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with this year’s recipients."
Clarke emphasized the importance of mentorship and support for AAPI students, saying it significantly impacts their self-confidence and achievements both academically and beyond. The faculty involved in these efforts find reward when graduates share their post-college successes.
Penguin Random House Senior Library Marketing Manager Miriam Tuliao nominated Clarke for the award, highlighting her contributions through publications, leadership roles within the Asian Pacific American Librarians Association (APALA), and dedication to supporting AANHPI communities.
SBU Libraries Dean Belkacem Karim Boughida praised Clarke's work: “What Janet and the team have built here at Stony Brook is powerful. It shows our AAPI students that they belong, that their experiences matter, and that the library stands with them.”
Library Journal Editor-in-Chief Hallie Rich described the Movers and Shakers as individuals advancing the library field by supporting learning, community connection, and engagement with reading.
This recognition follows Clarke's receipt of the American Library Association’s Medal of Excellence in March. She remains the only faculty member from Stony Brook University to receive either honor.