Franklin will join the historically black women's college in January under its William and Camille Cosby Endowed Professorship Program, dedicated to the fine arts, humanities and social sciences. The multidisciplinary initiative is designed to enhance the intellectual, cultural and creative life of Spelman.
Franklin was elected the city's first female mayor in 2001 and re-elected in 2004. She is barred by term limits from running for mayor again. The 63-year-old Franklin is an alumna of Howard University and the University of Pennsylvania.
Franklin's term ends Jan. 3 and she will begin her one-year professorship after leaving office.
Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin
http://accesswdun.com/article/2009/11/224992