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[PAST EVENT] Connecting Curiosity to Careers: Engaging People of Color in STEM

September 29, 2017
12pm
Location
VIMS - Watermen's Hall, McHugh Auditorium
1375 Greate Road
Gloucester Point, VA 23062Map this location
Access & Features
  • Open to the public
Dr. Dijanna Figueroa.
Dr. Dijanna Figueroa.

Marine scientist Dr. Dijanna Figueroa will present the first in the VIMS Friday Seminar Series on engaging people of color to become in STEM-connected careers.

Abstract:
The National Science Foundation's 2016 Report on Women, Minorities, and Persons with Disabilities in Science and Engineering states that Black and Hispanic/Latino men and women make up 11% of the STEM workforce. Our work focuses on developing and implementing strategies to increase this number. The Curiosity to Careers Initiative focuses on inspiring, engaging, retaining, and supporting young people as they are introduced to and pursue careers in STEM. Using the power of curiosity, storytelling, and mentorship, we strive to empower the next generation of scientists and engineers.


Speaker:
Dr. Dijanna Figueroa is a marine scientist and Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (S.T.E.A.M.) education specialist. She holds a Bachelors of Science in Marine Biology from University of California, Los Angeles and a Ph.D. in Marine Science from University of California, Santa Barbara. Her work as a deep-sea marine scientist and educator has been featured in various science documentaries, nature programs, and publications, including the James Cameron film "Aliens of the Deep" where her research on the thermal physiology of hydrothermal vent animals was featured. Committed to inspiring young people of all backgrounds to embrace science and engineering, she recently served as Global Director of Green S.T.E.A.M. Education for the National Geographic Society and DeepSea America?s cross country STEM tour.


This talk is open to the public and the William & Mary community. This is one in a series of events at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science commemorating the 50th anniversary of the first African-American students in residence at the College of William & Mary and is organized by the VIMS Dive In Committee.

Contact

[[dwilcox, David Wilcox]] 804-684-7088