Commitment to DEI
Diverse perspectives accelerate scientific progress and innovation. As a result, enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in STEM is essential. I am working to increase DEI by developing and implementing 1) inclusive teaching strategies, 2) impactful outreach programs, and 3) effective community building initiatives. Together, my efforts seek to both recruit and retain students from underrepresented groups in STEM. I developed and commercialized BioBits® educational kits to increase access to high-quality biology education by democratizing hands-on learning. I have executed multiple successful community outreach events with organizations such as the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, Boys Hope Girls Hope, and Chicago public schools. I currently serve on the Stanford Chemistry Equity and Inclusion committee, where I am leading development of a new REU program and facilitating implementation of a preview day for prospective graduate students from diverse backgrounds. Both events seek to create cohort and community among students from underrepresented groups in the chemistry department at Stanford. As an independent investigator, I will seek to implement these initiatives in my home department and advocate for similar programs across my research organization. Most importantly, I will teach my trainees to be DEI activists through community outreach, mentorship, and education of the next generation of diverse scientists and engineers.
Leadership Roles
Selected Member, Stanford Chemistry Equity and Inclusion Committee
2020-present
Workshop Leader, BioBuilder Educational Foundation
National
2016-2019
Workshop Leader, NSF Research Experience for Teachers
Northwestern University
2014-2019
Tutor/Mentor, Boys Hope Girls Hope
Evanston, IL
2013-2019
Other Outreach & Mentoring Activities
- Research Mentor in Bertozzi Lab (5 students; 2019-present)
- Undergraduate Research Mentor in Jewett Lab (2 students; 2015-2018)
- HerStory at Chicago Museum of Science and Industry (2016-2018)
- Cornell University Theta Tau Alumni Mentor (2017)
- Evanston Township High School Women in STEM Club Science & Engineering Shadow Day (2015)
- Research Mentor for Niles West High School STEM Lab Class (2014-2015)
- Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Career Day for Girls (2014-2015)
- Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers High School Initiatives Program (2014)
- Society of Women Engineers High School Outreach Chair, Cornell University Chapter (2008-2009)