Albright Science Stars

from W2W Magazine Spring 2022

You Can Do It

Albright’s Science Stars

Above L to R: Adelle L. Schade, Jacquelyn S. Fetrow and Karen A. Campbell ©Wayne Becker, Dave Zerbe Photography

The education landscape has changed drastically over the past two years with a speed that no one could have anticipated. Learning is taking place in so many non-traditional formats using adaptive new technology and a shift towards personalized learning that can look very different for each student. With a strong emphasis on full participation, the leadership at Albright College strives to build an inclusive and equitable academic community in which all community members thrive, recognize their full potential, engage meaningfully in institutional life and contribute to the flourishing of others.

Albright College and the Science Research Institute (SRI) have found incredible solutions and created innovative programs to address these changes, and much of this creativity can be attributed to the leadership styles of three dynamic women leaders on campus. For this edition of Women2Know, I’m proud to introduce:

JACQUELYN S. FETROW ’82, PH.D.

President and Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Albright College

KAREN A. CAMPBELL, PH.D.

Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dean of the Faculty, P. Kenneth Nase Chair of Biology

ADELLE L. SCHADE, MS, MED

Dean, Pre-College and Summer Programs, Founder, Science Research Institute Learn more about how these three women have embraced change, recognized the unique strengths of every campus stakeholder and learned lessons along their journeys!

What has led you to your current career path?

Adelle Schade: In my career, prior to Albright College, I was a middle and high school teacher for 25 years in the Conrad Weiser School District. During my time as a teacher, I knew there had to be a better way to engage students in their educational experience. For ten years, I commuted to Philadelphia, while teaching, to work in scientific R&D labs. This experience led to the development of Total Experience Learning, an educational system to address the need for student agency and personalization in the classroom. What led to this career path? An absolute passion for making change and trying to influence a shift in education.

How have you led other women in their career paths?

Dr. Fetrow: As a female scientist, and one who has mentored many young women who have done research or otherwise worked with me, I have always aimed to be supportive of reinforcing people’s passion. Sometimes young people, women especially, are told that only certain career paths are open to them. Or they think they “must be” a nurse or a doctor. I work to support women in finding their passions, and then seeking a career path that feeds that passion, even if it is a non-traditional path.

Would you wish to acknowledge a mentor or friend who helped you aspire to this point in your life’s journey, and why?

Adelle Schade: First, the two women in this article. I am so fortunate to be surrounded by women who empower others at Albright College. Additionally, Julia Klein. When I speak to Julia, she pushes me to look at things in a different way. She pushes me out of my comfort zone, and supports me at the same time. I hope to do for other women, what Jacque, Karen and Julia have done for me.

What words of wisdom would you offer to other women?

Dr. Campbell: Don’t be afraid to pursue your passion, or follow a dream, even if you don’t know exactly where it will take you. You will find the next steps along your way. Sometimes that will involve some changes in direction, and those are part of the path too. You don’t need to know the end-point to make the most of the journey.

What is the most valuable way women can support each other?

Dr. Fetrow: Three things: amplify what other women say, ensure that what women say is attributed to them and mentor young women to find their passion. In meetings and other group situations, I have often observed that when a woman says something, it is ignored until another person in the meeting, typically male, says the same thing. So, I often will amplify the statement that the woman said, with specific attribution. And, when another person takes ownership of a statement or suggestion, I attempt to make sure the woman who originally said it is given credit.

Is there an “aha” moment or experience that defines who you are?

Adelle Schade: An “aha” moment that had an impact on me was realizing I didn’t need to identify a plan or path for my life that was absolute. It stemmed from something my Uncle Bud Reitnouer said to me when I went to him for “life advice.” His advice to me was, “Enjoy the mystery of life,” and he reminds me of this often. He emphasizes to work hard every day for your purpose and what comes next is a mystery. Do not be afraid to take a risk, then enjoy the experiences that unfold.

What three things do you recommend that contribute to your success? Dr. Fetrow:

1. Take advantage of opportunities that seem interesting, even if they are outside the expected lane or considered to be bad choices by some. 2. Always give credit to others. It is amazing how much you can accomplish if you don’t care who gets the credit. 3. A positive attitude makes a huge difference. Everyone owns their own attitude – it is the one thing that you can impact always.

What is the best advice you have received?

Dr. Campbell: Attitude matters. People notice how you interact with others, and it influences their assessment of you, as well as their interaction with others. Maintain your composure. If you appear flustered, confused or irritated, you lose respect. Calmness shows. Communicate openly and clearly with others, and don’t hesitate to let your enthusiasm show. Let people know that you care about the work that you are doing. You are always a role model for someone. Be a good one!

Please share why you believe W2W is important for the community.

Adelle Schade: Women2Women is a vital, influencing organization in our community. I find W2W to be welcoming and inclusive. Under Rachael Romig’s leadership, W2W supports and encourages women to take leadership roles and create change. The members of W2W encourage each other to be “at the table.” To influence change and make our voices heard, we need women representatives on boards, committees, in executive roles and in key operational positions. W2W supports and empowers women to embrace positions of power and influence to truly make an impact. 2 By Ellen Albright, Director of Strategic Partnerships – Science Research Institute at Albright College