REINVENTED ISSUE 06Â
WINTER 2020
Lisa Mae Brunson A Heart for Humanity
the
issue
Team Credits EDITOR IN CHIEF Caeley Looney
WRITING Officer: Aparna Rajesh Officer: Vilina Mehta Director: Emily Miller Abigail Johnson Abigayle Peterson Erin Robinson Grace Pfohl Jenn Toso Lavanya Sharma Madeleine Bloomer Madeleine Salem Madeline Day Mandy Hathaway Meghana Krishna Samyukta Iyer Sona Popat Sydney Kasner Zhao Gu Gammage
CREATIVE CCO: Avika Patel Director: Alice Liu Director: Christine Ao Director: Megan Jacob Manager: Hiya Shah Manager: Niamh Murphy Aditi Shinde Anoushka Shrivastava Camille Kulanda Caroline Dinh Estrella Popoca Hamida Khatri Hariti Patel Jada Hunter-Hays Jasmine Lin Kelsey Woods Lisa Lam Lynn Nguyen Maria Fernanda Sagastume Nithya Guduri Reyna Morales Lumagui Rimi Chakravarti Sarah Bargfrede Vrinda Bansal
VOLUNTEERS Allison Maurice Ananya Balaji Andrea Lawrence Anika Garg Cara Stievater Chantelle Faria Jacleen Nardiello Jessica Paul Joanna John Keerthi Sekar Krisha Khandelwal Madeline Estey Maesen Silva Mariana Toledo Mavis Murdock Miranda Liu Natasha Matta Nirmiti Nerkar Priti Sharma Riya Patel Sareena Patel Sravya Nagalakunta Sydney Fournier Taylor Kohnow
ASK GLORIA Gloria Kimbwala
GUEST WRITERS Kitty Yeung
PUBLISHING Isabelle Tran Kathleen Nguyen Laura Peckyno
page 2 | Team Credits
FINANCE
OPERATIONS
CFO: Erin Mitchell Director: Palak Mehta Manager: Amy Zheng Manager: Avantika Samanta Manager: Nandini Goyal Manager: Niyati Patel Manager: Sonnet Xu Madeline Feigles Reema Sharma
COO: Renee Becker-Blau Director: Aly Trevino Director: Snigdha Saha Manager: Aneesha Kodati Manager: Divya Sharma Manager: Erika Torkildsen Manager: Madhu Suraj Aisha Lawrey Amanda Sherman Jolene Lee Olamide Fadahunsi Sarah Turner Vasundhara Bagchi
MARKETING CMO: Rachel Weeks Director: Anjali Cherukuri Director: Kaitlyn Davey Director: Marie Young Director: Varija Mehta Manager: Sanjana Yeddula Manager: Paola Zapata Gonzalez Abigail Jolteus Amelie Tran Armita Hosseini Darveen An Jenn Toso Karen Velderrain-Lopez Lucia Mascotelli Ritika Patel Shamailah Haque
SPECIAL THANKS Carla Sinclair Jen Jones Karen Peterson Ruthe Farmer Sherry Huss
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
DEAR READERS,
I
know that you won’t get to read this letter until December, but I’m sitting here writing this for you on September 19, 2020. Yesterday, the world changed. Yesterday, the world lost a true legend, a fighter that redefined the meaning of putting up a fight. Ruth Bader Ginsberg was my hero; she inspired me to keep that fire burning in my soul and to keep pushing the boundaries for gender equality. I have so much to thank her for, not just for the rights I have as a woman in America, but for the confidence she instilled in me and many others that women belong in places of power.
I know I usually quote one of my favorite comedic shows, but today that just doesn’t feel right. So, instead, I want to remind you all of something Ruth once said: “Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.” I hope that I’m doing that. My catchphrase this weekend has been ‘mourn today, fight tomorrow,’ and I know that you won’t actually be reading this for a few months, but I know that I will be fighting. She fought every day of her life for me, for you, for all of us, and now it’s our turn to continue her legacy and not let her down. This issue is dedicated to Ruth Bader Ginsberg. I couldn’t have possibly asked for a better issue to dedicate in her memory because as you flip through these pages, you are going to read about fighters just like her -- women who are fighting for racial equality, standing up against bullying, talking out about the changes needed to our healthcare system. Every single article in this issue focuses on the efforts of activists and how science and technology is being used to create change. This issue isn’t about the problems our world is currently facing; it’s about the changes we are working to make. While the world may have just lost a woman that will never be able to be replaced, I have a lot of hope for the future. As you read through this issue, I hope that you find that same hope that I have. We will not give up; we will continue to build on the strong foundation she laid for us. RBG might be gone, but I think she is leaving the world in some very good hands. To Infinity & Beyond, Caeley Looney
Letter From the Editor | page 3
RUTH BADER
Ginsburg
1933-2020
Supreme Court Justice Advocate Hero "Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you."
page 4 | Ruth Bader Ginsburg Tribute
contents
Social Activism 101 pg. 6
issue 6
Everyday Changemakers pg. 15
STEM From Passion pg. 27
Lisa Mae Brunson pg. 31
Holiday Reading List pg. 39
Environmental Activism pg. 43
Top 10 STEM Influencers pg. 47
DIY Section pg. 53
SOCIAL ACTIVISM 101 by emily miller m hi m o
!
One of the most prominent social activists today is Greta Thunberg, a 17-year-old environmental activist from Sweden. Her simple action of leading a school strike for combating climate change took root across the globe, and Greta quickly became a household name. This is the impact that social activism can have: bringing global awareness to and aiming to ameliorate causes of societal problems, such as climate change. Social activism is a very broad method of making a difference in STEM. Incorporating social activism into a classroom or workplace allows for the elimination of inequities in STEM fields. STEM can also be used in conjunction with social activism to solve some of the world’s toughest human rights issues.
1. What is
Social Activism?
Currently, you may be asking, “What is social activism?” In general terms, social activism is action taken with the intention of bringing about social change. These actions can take the form of protests, petitions, rallies, speaking engagements, or even pursuing a career involving activism! Activists want to change the world for the better and can focus on a variety of issues, including social, economic, and environmental problems. Social activists try to remedy root causes of inequity and tend to the needs of individuals. Social action has been a driving force for many movements in the 20th and 21st centuries. Activists such as Martin Luther King, Jr., and Greta Thunberg stand out as dignitaries, but anyone can be an activist, no matter how small their impact. Though social activism is very broad, it can be applied to and used in conjunction with STEM to promote important change. For instance, creating organizations for marginalized students in STEM
helps to rectify the issue of underrepresentation of women and minorities in these fields. And STEM can, in turn, fuel social activism efforts. Research can be used to educate community members about important scientific topics, like environmental science, in order to ensure that leaders are properly informed before making major decisions. Some scientists have even used social media as a tool to further social activism efforts. For example, Virginia Tech’s Flint Water Study Research Team used Twitter to communicate and mobilize the public to help those in Flint, Michigan. By posting scientific findings on Twitter, the team was able to effectively educate the public about the science behind the Flint water crisis. Social activism not only benefits the causes that are being brought to light by giving them media attention but also is beneficial for activists! Individuals who participate in social activism have reported better health and wellbeing, according to an Indiana University and UNC Chapel Hill study regarding the 2016 election. Activism instills a sense of purpose larger than oneself, and advocates reported feeling more empowered and confident after actively participating in furthering a cause, like an election campaign. Social activists learn new skills and are able to apply them directly, increasing Social Activism 101 | page 7
their self-efficacy, or belief in themselves. Additionally, being part of a cause gives a sense of community— everyone is fighting for the same thing. In certain cases, activism can also affect individuals’ habits. If an individual is involved in an environmental cause, for example, they may alter their diet to a healthier option, and it may encourage them to participate in more physically active undertakings (outdoor events, marches, etc.). Even promoting a cause online can improve well-being, as online activists are able to connect with individuals supporting the same cause through the internet.
Social Media
Activism
TIPS + TRICKS page 8 | Social Activism 101
2. Social Media
Activism
Now that you know what activism is, how it is intertwined with STEM, and the benefits of being an activist, it’s time to get involved! A simple, yet effective, way to get involved is by engaging in social media activism. Although this particular type of activism has only been around for a few years, it is an extremely powerful tool. Anyone can post on social media, and making (or reposting) informative, compelling content is a great way to begin educating your social media followers. Social networking sites have become a hub of information, and many users turn to social media for news. Some examples of social media activism are the #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter movements. Though these causes started out as hashtags on the internet, they have had real-world impact—social media has the potential to produce lasting societal improvements. In fact, 67% of Americans believe that social media sites can create sustained movements for social change. However, it is important to engage in social media activism with intention. Anyone with a social media account can repost an infographic, but it is important to evaluate the effectiveness of your social media activism. Ensure that the information you are posting is supported by reputable sources, and encourage your followers to take action for the cause you are bringing attention to. Encouraging an action item, such as educating oneself, attending a protest or rally, or signing petitions is an important step to ensure that your activism has impacts beyond momentary feelings of empathy while scrolling through one’s Instagram feed.
verify all info before sharing
encourage your followers to take action
check if you're sharing from reputable sources
remember to keep up the effort offline
3. Scholar
Activism
Outside of the screen, activism has a place in the classroom. Scholar activism can be a prominent part of a STEM education, as it combines academic pursuits with public engagement. Many science and technology students desire to make a difference instead of simply making their way through a degree program, and academic activism makes it possible for students to have a meaningful impact while still pursuing a STEM education. A scholar-activist works to create a tangible change within the communities they are working in—they can bridge the gap between theory and direct application. Although not all scientific fields lend themselves well to activism, it is often considered secondary to students’ careers in the fields that do. By ensuring a focus on the community throughout their studies, students can incorporate activism into their academic research. Even students who are not yet able to engage in research can further scholar activism by supporting academics who follow practices that ensure activism is a major part of their research.
4. Career-
based Activism
Activism can also be incorporated into a career. Though there are a number of occupations that can be defined as “activist,” it is possible to make an impact without being an activist by job title. Science and math teachers, for example, are in a perfect position to implement activism in STEM. Educator activism is a growing movement involving teachers who have experienced marginalization in these fields firsthand. These teachershave been inspired by their own experiences to create organizations for social justice in STEM, such as Teachers 4 Social Justice in San Francisco and Teacher Activist Group
Boston. Organizations such as these allow educators to address inequities among science and technology students. Educators can also engage in simple acts that further social efforts in STEM. For example, teachers can advocate for equality in the classroom, give equal opportunities to students regardless of gender, and encourage girls and underrepresented populations to continue into higher-level science and math coursework.Teachers are not the only professionals who are able to incorporate social activism into their careers. Career fields that lend themselves to activism include law, social work, government, and environmental jobs. However, activism can be incorporated into any occupation if a person is able to focus on enacting change within their locality. Social activism is an important avenue for creating lasting change within communities. STEM research and education can benefit from social activism, and it is important to recognize how STEM programs and careers can better the community. The inclusion of social activism in a career can lead to a more fulfilling job overall. Activism is not just confined to your career, though. Anyone can be a STEM activist, whether you are posting on social media, getting involved in organizations that tackle inequity, or have dedicated your career to bettering communities through STEM. There are plenty of social initiatives that need support, and you can make a direct difference in your community by promoting social activism—start getting involved today, and see all the good you can do!
Here are some opportunities to get involved right now! REINVENTED Work on empowering girls in STEM https://bit.ly/3iU1W9S FIRSTLikeAGirl A movement to empower girls in FIRST Robotics https://firstlikeagirl.com Girl Rising A global campaign for girls' education and empowerment https://girlrising.org/about-us-1
Social Activism 101 | page 9
HISTORICAL FIGURE:
Christa McAuliffe 1948-1986 BY: ERIN ROBINSON
The year is 1961, and President John F. Kennedy is yearning for the United States to land on the moon. “I believe that this nation should commit itself to achieve the goal, before this decade is out, of landing a man on the moon and returning him safely to the earth.” In 1969, American astronauts achieved that goal of setting foot on the moon, but they refused to stop there. Flash forward to 1981 and NASA starts the Space Shuttle program, which provides valuable firsthand scientific knowledge of the Moon and space, and being an astronaut becomes the coolest job anyone could possibly have. Christa McAuliffe was born in 1948 in Boston, Massachusetts. In high school, the day after John Glenn orbited the Earth, she told a friend, “Do you realize that someday people will be going to the Moon? Maybe even taking a bus, and I want to do that!” Instead of pursuing a career as an astronaut, however, McAuliffe chose to become an educator. In 1970, she obtained her first teaching position. page 10 | Christa McAuliffe
Image courtesy of NASA’s Human Space Flight Gallery.
McAuliffe taught social studies in several different disciplines, including American history, law, and economics. According to The New York Times, her teaching “emphasized the impact of ordinary people on history, saying they were as important to the historical record as kings, politicians or generals.” Though she was happy as a teacher, McAuliffe’s extraterrestrial dreams were not yet quashed, as she had believed. In 1984, President Ronald Reagan announced the Teacher in Space Project, which would select a teacher
teacher to become a part of a space shuttle crew and be the first civilian to fly into space. Christa McAuliffe learned of the program and became one of over eleven thousand applicants, and, in 1985, she was selected as the teacher who would go to space. NASA official Alan Ladwig said “she had an infectious enthusiasm,” which showed through her teaching career and the selection process.
was felt by all of America, and the loss of McAuliffe was particularly impactful on the education community. After her death, McAuliffe had two New Hampshire teacher’s colleges and 40 schools named in her honor. An asteroid, a crater on the Moon, a crater on Venus, and many teaching grants are all named after her as well. Even today, McAuliffe is being honored for her contributions to science. New Hampshire inventor Dean Kamen, the founder of FIRST Robotics, worked with his father Jack Kamen, a comics illustrator, to create a design for a commemorative coin with McAuliffe’s portrait and Jack’s art on the back. He then worked with New Hampshire’s congresspeople to introduce a bill in the federal House of Representatives that would direct the Treasury to mint those coins, honoring McAuliffe’s legacy. Three hundred and fifty thousand silver dollar coins will be minted and sold with a surcharge that will be donated to FIRST for “the purpose of engaging and inspiring young people.” Dean Kamen advocates for the passage of this bill through what he calls “Dean’s homework,” his calls to action in speeches to FIRST students, parents, and mentors.
As part of the program, McAuliffe planned to teach lessons from space. Her lessons would include basic science experiments and talks about the space shuttle and space travel. She also wanted to keep a diary “like a woman on the Conestoga wagons pioneering the West.” Her positive attitude and appearances on TV demonstrated to the nation the importance of the Teacher In Space Project. On The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, she said, “If you're offered a seat on a rocket ship, don't ask what seat. Just get on.” Early in 1986, McAuliffe boarded the Challenger space shuttle with the rest of the astronauts on the mission. McAuliffe’s enthusiasm and personality drew massive attention, and about 40 million Americans watched the launch. Seventythree seconds after the rocket took off, it destroyed itself, breaking apart in the air and tragically killing every crew member in the mission. The impact of the Challenger disaster
To honor McAuliffe’s memory and achievement, the Christa McAuliffe Commemorative Coin Act of 2019 was introduced in both the House and the Senate in January 2019 and became law on October 9th, 2019. The coins will be released in 2021. Together, we can remember the legacy of an American tragically killed in the service of education and look to the future as her memorial inspires the next generation. Christa McAuliffe | page 11
Poverty and Health: How our Institutions Fail the Most Vulnerable Dr. Nancy Mimm is an associate professor of nursing at Harrisburg University. She received her doctor of nursing practice from Rutgers University and is board certified in advanced public health. Dr. Mimm’s research focuses on population health: for 23 years, she has studied topics including maternal health, prevention of childhood morbidities in disadvantaged communities, and public health policy. She offers her expertise on improving health outcomes in disadvantaged populations. BY: MEGHANA KRISHNA
Economically disadvantaged communities in the United States have long pointed to shortcomings in the American health system that limit healthcare accessibility and affordability. For years, their concerns have been remedied with ineffective public health, education, and housing policies. Today, a global health crisis has further exposed weaknesses in the healthcare system disproportionately impacting the poor. page 12 | Dr. Nancy Mimm
The U.S. has one of the largest income-based health disparities in the world: studies show the richest one percent of Americans live, on average, 10 to 15 years longer than the bottom one percent. Environmental stress encourages maladaptive coping mechanisms like smoking and drug use, and poorer communities often lack access to nutritious food and safe recreational areas.
Image courtesy of Minck Photography LLC.
Dr. Nancy Mimm, an Associate Professor of Nursing at Harrisburg University, studies social determinants of health within economically disadvantaged communities. According to Dr. Mimm, there are a number of structural barriers within and outside the healthcare system that contribute to negative health outcomes in low-income areas. The patient-physician relationship, particularly in rural and poor urban communities, is, in many ways, more strained than ever. Disadvantaged patients, including those from low-income households and minority groups as well as the uninsured, disproportionately report receiving subpar care from health employees. A 2016 Health Affairs research initiative examined patient interactions with the healthcare system: researchers were surprised to find it was treatment from healthcare workers — not prescription costs or the bureaucracy and lack of transparency in the system — that concerned patients the most. Patients reported treatment bordering on a lack of respect and outright contempt, providing anecdotes of healthcare professionals who disregarded their symptoms, avoided eye contact, and even expressed disgust during examinations. 2017 data released in California revealed the top quality of care complaint by Medi-Cal recipients was “poor provider/staff attitude.” Many recipients of
Medi-Cal are non-English speaking immigrants and struggle to communicate with their physicians. Some felt doctors patronized them, equating a lack of English skills with a lack of intelligence. Several participants in the Health Affairs study felt their physicians were motivated more by money than by a desire to help their patients. Their suspicions aren’t unfounded — a 2016 ProPublica analysis uncovered a strong correlation between the amount of money a physician receives from the pharmaceutical industry and the rate at which he or she prescribes brand-name drugs. In 2015, nearly half (48%) of all physicians in the U.S received some form of industry payment, amounting to a $2.4 billion total. Though drug kickbacks are illegal, payments between physicians and pharma companies are not tightly regulated. Payments do not, of course, equate to bribery — however, the analysis suggests pharma companies use monetary compensation as a strategy to raise their bottom lines, and patients are justified in their concerns. A deeply rooted mistrust of the healthcare system combined with a lack of community and social support in disadvantaged communities means ailing individuals often don’t seek out the help they need until it’s too late. Patients who lack faith in their doctors are less likely to comply dsjfj
Dr. Nancy Mimm | page 13
with treatment orders and schedule timely follow-ups, further corroding the patient-physician relationship and fueling a cycle of deteriorating outcomes. Bridging the trust gap is critical, and it’s not easy — healthcare providers often aren’t aware of their own biases, and the system can work against the best interests of physicians and patients, says Dr. Mimm.
Healthcare policy reform is critical — ultimately, however, the healthcare system can only do so much. Without adequate housing, education, and transportation infrastructure in place, improving public health will continue to be an uphill battle as poverty forces individuals to prioritize day-to-day needs over long-term health.
Building trust requires repeated, meaningful interaction. Experts point to the administrative burden on physicians as a factor limiting face-to-face time with patients and contributing to lower morale. The National Institute of Health analyzed inefficiencies in healthcare administration and found doctors, on average, spend nearly 9 hours a week on administrative tasks. This is largely due to shifts in healthcare policy over past decades: the implementation of electronic health records and a rise in large-practice employment have contributed to more bureaucracy and paperwork. More efficient administrative software, possibly enhanced by machine learning, is critical to improving patient-physician relationships.
According to Dr. Mimm, institutions like churches and schools play a critical role in public health and have a moral obligation to help create a healthy environment. Churches and other religious organizations strengthen the social fabric of communities by giving members a sense of belonging and help combat loneliness. Faith-based organizations are integral to the social welfare system and can provide critical support without the bureaucratic barriers of government welfare.
More importantly, the healthcare system disincentivizes physicians from working in rural and low-income urban areas, where the sickest people live. The profit margins from treating privately insured patients are typically much higher than those from government insurance. Altruistically motivated doctors who forgo larger profits to work in low-income areas face a number of challenges: they often work in understaffed clinics lacking critical resources like counseling, therapy, and aid to communicate effectively with non-English speaking individuals. The most fundamental way to transform the patient experience in poorer communities is by recruiting more healthcare providers who reflect the demographics of their communities. Healthcare workers with an intricate knowledge of the unique challenges faced by disadvantaged patients can more easily establish trust, open communication, and cultural competence, notes Dr. Mimm, citing affirmative action as an important means of recruitment. Transforming the demographics of the healthcare system is, however, a challenging, long-term undertaking, requiring sweeping changes to the precollege education system.
page 14 | Dr. Nancy Mimm
Schools can help prevent the development and progression of childhood morbidities. Instituting mental health counselors who are trained to recognize and treat signs of poverty-induced trauma, for example, can greatly benefit students. The needs of students in poverty are unique — students from more secure backgrounds often arrive at school primed to learn, while disadvantaged students may need additional emotional support and remedial education to perform optimally. Improving health outcomes in low-income communities requires a holistic approach, stresses Dr. Mimm — it’s crucial to push for reform across every social institution, in addition to the healthcare system, to create real change. “Most people cannot steer their own health outcomes — the whole community needs to stand behind them,” Dr. Mimm says.
“We need to stop thinking about just treating the patient. In reality, we need to treat their surroundings, including their family and their entire community. That’s the only way we can improve the future of public health.”
ting Down with a Science Communicator: ence Communicator: Sitting Down with a Dr. Claudia Antolini Dr. Claudia Science Antolini Communicator: Dr. Claduia Antolini Dr. Claduia Antolini
Dr. Claudia Antolini BY: LAVANYA SHARMA
Dr. Claudia Antolini is a science communicator in the UK, especially in the fields of physics and space science. This means that she tries to get as many people excited about physics as she can, especially those who are usually told that they “can’t” pursue science simply because they don’t look like a stereotypical scientist.
The Importance of Science Communication In Dr. Antolini’s eyes, science communication is about starting a dialogue between experts and non-experts – not only telling people about science, but also listening to their thoughts. Dr. Antolini believes that curiosity is the fundamental attribute of a scientist and a universal human experience. Letting everyone come up with their own questions is one of her priorities, and there doesn’t always need to be an answer to the questions that are asked. “It’s perfectly OK to admit that you don’t know. That’s when you start finding out the really interesting answers!” She believes that being able to participate in science is fundamental for everyone, because understanding how things work makes us more self-assured in the decisions we face every day. Science should serve to make people’s lives better, and an inclusive, participatory practice of science communication is a vital part of using science to empower others. The answers to the important questions of equality, sustainable development, global health, and many others, must benefit everyone. Therefore, everyone must be involved in the discussion.
Discovering a Passion for Astrophysics When Dr. Antolini was a child, she was very curious and interested in multiple subjects, but she initially wanted to pursue a career in acting. When she was around 17, however, Dr. Antolini realized that she wanted to be a scientist. She felt a very strong urge to understand the world around her, and she felt the best way to do that was to study physics. page 16 | Dr. Claudia Antolini
The idea of something bigger than humans, something bigger than anything else, was incredibly appealing to her. It was her own way of making sense of the world she was living in. As Dr. Antolini was studying at university, she learned about Dark Energy, a mysterious component of the Universe, which really fascinated her. In recent years, astronomers have detected an increase in the expansion of the Universe: it becomes bigger and bigger in a way we don’t yet understand. The main idea is that some sort of mysterious force, Dark Energy, is behind it — but we don’t know what that might be or how it could work. Dr. Antolini eventually ended up doing her Ph.D. research on one of the ways in which Dark Energy could be measured and is still excited about this mysterious force to this day.
Battling Imposter Syndrome As time went on, Dr. Antolini's research progressed, but she started to struggle with imposter syndrome. She did not feel productive enough and thought that she wasn’t smart enough to get a Ph.D. Impostor syndrome is unfortunately quite common among graduate students, and even Dr. Antolini still feels discouraged from time to time. Dr. Antolini states, “I encountered a sexist attitude that made me feel like I had to prove myself more because I am a woman, and women are thought to be less good in science (which is absolutely not true!).” This motivated her to run in the student elections, and she was elected President of the Student Council because she wanted to make the environment of the school a better place for everyone. By the end of her Ph.D. program, Dr. Antolini was able to spend some time in the UK with an additional scholarship and had the opportunity to travel around Europe to give seminars about her work and meet other experts in the field. It was during her Ph.D. studies that Dr. Antolini became involved with science communication. For her debut in scicomm, she designed and ran two workshops about the Universe for primary school children, which were great successes. Later, she helped in designing an exhibition about the history of the Universe and was interviewed about it on the radio, which still makes her proud to this day. When she finally defended her Ph.D. thesis, many people from other disciplines came, thanks to her many activities and advocacy for improving the student experience. She had become well known in her community, not only for her research proficiency, but also as a friend, mentor, and trustworthy presence.
Dr. Antolini's day-to-day life What Dr. Antolini enjoys most about her job as a science communicator is that it is constantly changing, and there is no “typical day.” She generally organizes events, which means taking care of a number of different aspects: looking after the logistics, recruiting speakers, sourcing props, devising experiments, and being present on the day of the event to make it happen. On other days, you can find her writing reports about what was done, why, and what was achieved. Sometimes, she trains other people to become science communicators, and occasionally she receives training about things she doesn't know. She loves the fact that she has the opportunity to engage with people that have different skills — on some days, she teaches something, and on other days, she ends up learning something. Skill exchange is a fantastic addition to a stimulating working environment.
Advice from Dr. Antolini for Aspiring Astrophysicists "Do it! You will learn so much. You might hear some naysayers that you’re not good enough, and you might doubt yourself. But you are good enough. Reach for the stars! You’ll have to study hard and learn how to code. And also, the most important thing of all is to make sure that no one gets left behind. Listen to people that have different experiences than you, and always support each other. There are many things that we need to improve, and together we can do it.”
Dr. Claudia Antolini | page 17
DR. NICOLE CALLOWAY RANKINS: CREATING CHANGE IN OBSTETRICS BY SYDNEY KASNER Dr. Nicole Calloway Rankins is creating waves of change within her field of medicine as an OB/GYN. She recognized that women are not being given enough of a voice throughout their pregnancy and childbirth journey and has established several unique approaches to combat this issue. She works in person with her patients at the hospital, virtually through her online childbirth class, and via streaming services in her pregnancy and birth podcast. She says, “I put the birthing person at the center of their birth experience in a way that's not done enough in our birth culture.” Along with supporting all pregnant and birthing people, she also spends time combating the particularly overwhelming disparities that exist for Black women. For Dr. Calloway Rankins, work has become synonymous with women’s health advocacy.
Amplifying and Empowering the Voices of Pregnant Women To improve pregnancy experiences for all birthing people, Dr. Calloway Rankins works tirelessly to educate women with evidence-based, unbiased information. She says, “I’m really passionate about empowering women with information and education so that they can advocate for themselves, understand that they have a voice, and … know how to use that voice when it comes to pregnancy and birth.” Dr. Calloway Rankins reaches many women through her podcast All About Pregnancy & Birth, her virtual birth education class, and in-person when working at the hospital.
To learn more visit her IG: drnicolerankins
page 18 | Dr. Nicole Rankins
The podcast may be the first of its kind, hosted by an OB/GYN and oriented towards pregnant women. Currently, the All About Pregnancy & Birth podcast has been downloaded over 250,000 times. In order to provide resources to as many women as possible, Dr. Calloway Rankins made sure to provide many free options alongside the paid services she offers. For example, there are free resources available on her website website www.ncrcoaching.com, including a birth plan course, over 80 podcast episodes, and special quick reference guides. For a small fee, interested women are able to access the birth education class as well. That class includes about eight hours of education modules, a closed Facebook support group, downloadable tip sheets, and more.
Tuning in to All About Pregnancy & Birth will introduce the listener to all topics relating to maternal health. The podcast episodes include evidence-based information presented by Dr. Calloway Rankins, powerful childbirth stories, and featured special interviews. Topics covered include general pregnancy topics such as managing pain in labor (episode 28), breastfeeding (episode 69), and nutrition while pregnant (episode 42). In addition to straightforward content, Dr. Calloway Rankins is renowned for her pleasant voice and non-judgmental approach to discussing occasionally controversial topics. The birth education class produced by Dr. Calloway Rankins empowers women to make their own decisions about their birth and then advocate for themselves. Empowering components of her birth class include guidance on how to choose the right facility and delivery team, information about doulas, questions to ask before any intervention, and warning signs to monitor in the postpartum period.
Combating Disparities in Maternal Healthcare Existing literature documenting disparities for Black women’s maternal health is well-known, and yet Black women continue to suffer significantly compared to their white counterparts. According to the peer-reviewed medical journal Obstetrics & Gynecology and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Black women suffer pregnancy-related deaths three to four times more frequently than white women. Black women are not protected from these complications by accomplishments like education, income, or fame. Data from the CDC shows that a Black woman with a college degree is almost twice as likely to die from pregnancy-related mortality than a white woman without a high school diploma. There are many factors contributing to these increased Black maternal health risks; however, systemic racism is the primary reason cited within academic and medical literature.
Dr. Rankins advocates for eliminating these disparities, including via podcast episodes such as “Episode 10: Staying Safe & Alive During Pregnancy & The Postpartum Period” and “Episode 72: How Structural Racism & Implicit Bias Create Disparities in Maternal Care for Black Families.” The podcast includes coverage of medical issues that are more common in Black women and methods to prevent them if possible, such as preeclampsia (episode 36), gestational diabetes (episode 56), or COVID-19 (episode 58). She also stresses the importance of self-advocacy for pregnant Black women, considering their increased risk for pregnancy-related mortality. According to Dr. Calloway Rankins, for these women, “If you don’t advocate for yourself, it can literally be life or death.”
Becoming a Healthcare Changemaker Considering the heartbreaking prevalence of racial disparities in maternal health, it is incredibly important for all healthcare providers to work together on these issues. Anyone who already works in healthcare or is interested in the field can be part of this change. The biggest piece of advice from Dr. Nicole Calloway Rankin is, “Be open to recognizing that you probably have some biases in place, and then change them.” It is normal to have these biases, but, if left unchecked, they can lead to negative assumptions and dangerous results. She also recommends truly listening to women and encouraging them to ask questions. Even if you do not work in healthcare, you are still able to tackle systemic racism by addressing your own biases. If you are passionate about making a difference in maternal health safety for Black women, consider reaching out to organizations such as the Black Mamas Matter Alliance. For those interested in following experts in the field of maternal health disparities, Dr. Calloway Rankins recommends Dr. Karen Scott at the University of California, San Francisco or Dr. Joia Crear Perry from the National Birth Equity Collaborative. Stay up-to-date on all topics related to maternal health by following Dr. Nicole Calloway Rankins! Dr. Nicole Rankins | page 19
Natalie Hampton: The
Power
of
Kindness
BY: ABIGAYLE PETERSON
TW: Mental Illness, Suicidal Thoughts, Bullying
Changemakers for Compassion One simple act of kindness has the potential to change the world. Without demonstrating compassion for other people, communities feel less inclined to create the kind of actionable change that the world desperately needs. From racial injustice to the silent struggle with COVID-19, today’s generation must rise above as a catalyst for change by leading with empathy for the unseen. Natalie Hampton, the now 20-year-old CEO of Sit With Us Inc., paves the way for anti-bullying and kindness advocacy. She founded and designed the Sit With Us app, a free lunch planning tool for iOS and Android that helps middle and high school students find open lunch tables in their cafeterias. Although this app may not stop bullying, Sit With Us brings awareness to the reality of bullying and promotes a more inclusive community.
As the weeks dragged on, the ostracization she faced took a more violent turn. Hampton was physically beaten, scratched, shoved into lockers, and sent online death threats by her classmates. They attempted to steal her feelings of safety and self-confidence. Her self-esteem slowly disintegrated with each day of incessant bullying and harassment, and so did her hope for the future. She felt as if her life was meaningless. “I felt so invisible, and no one answered my screams for help. It felt as though my life didn’t matter anymore,” states Hampton.
From speaking at the TEDxTeen conference in London to being featured on the CBS news outlet, Hampton has truly made kindness go viral. However, her global success originates from a place of loneliness, immense pain, and vulnerability. Hampton is using her mobile app to promote warm, inclusive school environments so that no one will ever experience harassment like she did.
After these traumatic experiences, Hampton switched schools. She quickly found a group of supportive and genuine friends; they saw her scars and her hurt, but they loved her in spite of it. Upon finding a loving community of teachers and classmates at her new school, Hampton began reflecting on ways to prevent other students from enduring harassment as she had in her old school. Her painful past ultimately inspired her to create her revolutionary mobile app. Hampton went from being a victim of bullying to becoming an international leader in the anti-bullying movement. She turned her pain into power.
A Story of Resilience
Where Everyone Belongs
Hampton’s life was changed when she first enrolled in a prestigious, private middle school in Los Angeles. At her new school, the student body maintained a cold atmosphere, initially refusing to even talk to her. One time, Hampton tried sitting with a group of students during lunch, and they responded with “You can’t sit with us.” After that incident, she sat alone through every lunch period.
Sit With Us enables inclusivity and builds kindness in the school lunchroom through its plethora of in-app features. Users can create their own lunch tables for others to discover. To get started with Sit With Us, you must either sign up with an existing Facebook account or your email. Afterwards, while navigating through its simplistic, blue-tinted user interface, you can create a personalized user
page 20 | Natalie Hampton
profile that can include a profile picture, a list of hobbies, and your school’s name. Once the user finds an open lunch table, they click ‘join’ and will be able to find a supportive group of friends to sit with. Through Sit With Us’s many features, users can realize that they’re never alone. “If I only had one person to sit with at lunch, then that would have made all the difference,” Hampton emphasizes. She realized that it only takes one person to change the world. Through the creation of Sit With Us, Hampton has inspired thousands of people worldwide to be more self-aware about their words and actions.
"She turned her pain into power". Challenge Accepted Since its launch on Sept. 9, 2016, Hampton’s app has accumulated over 100,000 downloads in 8 countries worldwide. Her activism in the anti-bullying movement has even garnered the attention of international press and media. She has spoken in TEDxTeen and at various conferences, including those from Girls Can Do, Say No to Bullying, Renaissance Weekend, and the Harvard Graduate School of Education. She also received the “Outstanding Youth Delegate” award at the prestigious United Nations Youth Assembly and is featured in the Smithsonian Museum. Sit With Us’s international success made Hampton desire to change her old school community’s status quo. Hampton led an assembly at her previous middle school and spoke about the importance of standing up against bullying. Her voice and courageousness enabled students to rethink the way they should consciously treat others. Before Sit With Us became a global success, however, Hampton had struggled with releasing the app on the iOS App Store. Sit With Us was originally rejected from the App Store for technical bugs.
Powered by motivation for creating a safer, kinder, and more inclusive future, Hampton spent a significant amount of time redesigning many features of the app. Despite various setbacks, like beta-testing errors, onslaughts of new bugs every day, and design functionality issues, Hampton persevered. “When I wanted to give up, I had to remember why I’m in this in the first place,” she says. Because she had felt invisible and powerless before, Hampton felt empathy for the struggling middle and high school students around the world. She wanted to make them feel seen and to give them a voice through Sit With Us. Today, her app has caused hundreds of thousands of schools worldwide to start shifting towards a more kind, welcoming, and inclusive culture.
Activism Starts From Within Every passionate pursuit in life has a purpose. Hampton began her anti-bullying activism work through Sit With Us to ensure that every student feels loved and heard. Although using your voice to spread awareness about an issue is important, social activism implies more than just speaking up. Social activism means taking action to solve society’s most pressing issues.Hampton also believes that there is no age cut-off to make a significant difference in your community. In fact, Hampton was only 16 when she developed her app and became the CEO of the Sit With Us international nonprofit organization. “Whatever you are about, do something about it!” emphasizes Hampton. Just spreading awareness is not enough; you must take action for what’s right and use your talents to create waves of positive change. As long as your activism work has a greater purpose, like Hampton’s with Sit With Us, the possibilities for creating a more positive future are endless.
Be the Change “Changing the world starts with you, it could even start as small as your school cafeteria,” Hampton says. She had a horrible middle school experience, but she decided to speak up against bullying and empower others to do the same.Through founding Sit With Us, Hampton strives to continually advocate for a society of youth activists that are built on the foundation of compassion and empathy. As Hampton uses her voice to unify students one lunch period at a time, we can also begin to enact the positive change that we wish to see in future generations. “After moving schools and meeting people who loved me despite my scars, I realize[d] that it really does only take one person to change the world,” Hampton states. By creating initiatives that positively impact our community through social activism like Sit with Us, we can continually build a kinder and more inclusive future for all. Natalie Hampton | page 21
SPEAKING UP AND SPEAKING LOUD:
ADVICE FROM
BILITA MATTES BY: ABIGAIL JOHNSON
Women all over the world have navigated sometimes difficult professional paths to earn and secure positions of responsibility and leadership. This is especially true for women professionals in technology and science: industries that continue to face major challenges in gender parity and equity.
Leading an initiative in support of women professionals in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions is Harrisburg University of Science and Technology’s Bilita Mattes. She is an executive with over 30 years of higher education leadership experience and currently serves as Harrisburg’s Provost and Chief Academic Officer and the Executive Director of the STEM-UP Network. As such, Mattes is responsible for all academic programs and services at the University. “You don’t wake up in your twenties and go ‘I want be the Chief Academic Officer at a university someday.’” says Mattes when asked about her background. "It's been an amazing journey." Mattes’ father was the first in their family to attend college. He often expressed the importance of education to her. Growing up, Mattes saw her father as a role model, which led to her educational achievements and career in higher education and lifelong learning. "I love working with HU's STEM students, staying real through the students and having an understanding of what gives them joy and what goves them pain," Mattes explains. "What challenges them, and what motivates them." page 22 | Bilita Mattes
Dr. Mattes, along with other colleagues in Pennsylvania, created the STEM-UP Network, a community in support of women in STEM professions through programs, services, and a network that provide women with realworld strategies and relationships that help them advance and thrive both personally and professionally. This organization prioritizes connecting women and their allies with one another and cultivating an environment in which members can grow and advance as individuals and professionals in pursuit of gender equity in STEM. The STEM-UP Network is a social enterprise – an organization specifically developed to create positive social impact – powered by Harrisburg University. The STEM-UP Network develops its programs and services in response to documented reasons as to why women leave their STEM professions These programs provide leadership development, networking, and mentoring opportunities. Recent reports show that the issue of gender equity and parity in STEM professions will be further exacerbated by the pandemic. “Research already [and prior to the pandemic] shows us that we lose 50% of the women who start in STEM professions in the first 10 to 12 years of that profession,”
explains Mattes. “And it’s for reasons that we can counteract such as how to navigate in a hostile work environment…gain the skills to negotiate, communicate, build networks, and build relationships that will help them be supported and advance.” How do you, for example, make a place for yourself at the table and have your voice heard when you are the only woman on a team? It is still not unusual, especially in STEM professions and especially in leadership positions, for a woman professional to be the only woman on a team. Research further shows that gender disparity in STEM has a negative impact on the economy and competitiveness. Industry disparity in recruiting, retaining, and advancing women is costing the economy trillions of dollars according to some estimates and is exacerbating an already existing gap in the STEM workforce. .“When you think of women in STEM, their ticket to the dance is their discipline skill and not their ability to negotiate a salary [or] negotiate and navigate a promotion,” she says. “There’s a solid business case behind striving for gender parity and equity. If over 70% of professions today require STEM skills, and 50% of your workforce, which are women, are underrepresented in those STEM positions, and then you lose another 50% of them…. You just have to do the math to see the problem and the opportunity. There’s a business imperative in the answer.” Mattes explains that even experienced women in STEM professions who hold leadership positions often struggle with inequality. These women (and their male allies) work with Mattes to help conduct events through the STEM-UP Network to talk about some of the challenges they have faced and overcome in their careers and to share these stories with their colleagues with the goal of providing support to others in their personal and professional journeys and quests. For example, through events like community forums, summits, conferences, and webinars, the STEM-UP Network is able to put together panels of senior female associates across multiple fields to help participants strategize and build skills that may help them thrive and advance in their STEM profession. These conversations, programs, and services, and Mattes alike, often stress the importance of support. The best thing women can do to
support one another and bring equity to the STEM field is to build an ever-expanding community and network. Through her experiences in the workforce, Mattes has learned that these relationships are integral to finding passion and success in a career. Even accomplished women require support from time to time from an encouraging community and a solid network of colleagues, like the STEM-UP Network. It is often this support that gives us the confidence to point to our achievements and to promote our ideas.
What I tell women all the time is: get out of your own way. Don’t second guess yourself. Say what you need to say. Be the person who shows confidence in what you have to contribute and don’t hesitate to make the contribution.
Bilita Mattes | page 23
QUIZ:
Which Woman in STEM Are You? By Aparna Rajesh Not really Which do you enjoy more: pure science and math or technical work and engineering? a) Science! b) Technical and engineering work, for sure! c) Both!
Science!
Are you interested in working in a hospital? a) Yes! b) Not really
Both! Technical and Engineering! Which interests you most? a) Medicine and tech together BIOMEDICAL ENGINEER b) Environmental science and tech ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER
Yes!
What sounds like something you’d like to do? a) Designing aerospace technologies AEROSPACE ENGINEER b) Working on software SOFTWARE ENGINEER c) Designing machines MECHANICAL ENGINEER
page 24 | Which Women in STEM are You
How do you feel about working in a lab?
Love it!
a) Love it!
What interests you most?
b) Not a fan
a) Chemistry CHEMIST
Not a fan
b) Studying tissue PATHOLOGIST What interests you most?
c) Applied physics PHYSICIST
a) Psychology PSYCHOLOGIST
d) Astronomy and physics ASTROPHYSICIST
b) Pharmacology PHARMACOLOGIST c) Teaching PURE SCIENCE TEACHER OR PROFESSOR
e) Applied mathematics MATHEMATICIAN
What kind of work would you like to focus on? a) General medicine GENERAL PRACTITIONER
What interests you more? a) Caring for the ill; ordering and performing lab work, xrays, and other diagnostic tests; diagnosing and treating acute and chronic conditions; and counseling NURSE b) Diagnosing illness or injuries, prescribing medicine or treatment, performing surgery, addressing patients’ concerns
b) Children’s general medicine GENERAL PEDIATRIC PHYSICIAN c) Conditions of the heart and blood vessels CARDIOLOGIST d) Conditions of the brain and nervous system NEUROLOGIST
Diagnosing! Which Women in STEM are You | page 25
Find your result, and see what your major should be! Nursing Suggested Undergraduate Major: Biology
Psychology Suggested College Major: Psychology
General Practitioner Suggested Undergraduate Major: Biology (Tip: try to find accelerated medicine programs or pre-med tracks!)
Pharmacologist Suggested College Major: Chemistry or Biology
Pediatrician Suggested Undergraduate Major: Biology (Tip: try to find accelerated medicine programs or pre-med tracks!) Cardiologist Suggested Undergraduate Major: Biology (Tip: try to find accelerated medicine programs or pre-med tracks!) Neurologist Suggested Undergraduate Major: Biology (Tip: try to find accelerated medicine programs or pre-med tracks!) Chemist Suggested College Major: Chemistry Pathologist Suggested Undergraduate Major: Biology (Tip: try to find accelerated medicine programs or pre-med tracks!)
Pure Science Teacher or Professor Suggested College Major: This depends on the subject that you are interested in. Aerospace Engineer Suggested College Major: Aerospace Engineering Software Engineer Suggested College Major: Computer Science or Computer Engineering Mechanical Engineer Suggested College Major: Mechanical Engineering Biomedical Engineer Suggested College Major: Biomedical engineering Environmental Engineer Suggested College Major: Environmental engineering
Physicist Suggested Undergraduate Major: Applied Physics, Engineering Physics Astrophysicist Suggested Undergraduate Major: Astrophysics or Astronomy Mathematician Suggested Undergraduate Major: Applied Mathematics, Computational Mathematics
page 26 | Which Women in STEM are You
To learn more about all these different careers in STEM, check out our corresponding blog at www.reinventedmagazine.com/stories
STEM From
Passion How Rose-Hulman Engineers are ‘Making It Happen’ through Humanitarian Design
by Madeleine Salem
STEM From Passion | page 27
"Engineers [‌] are not mere technicians and should not approve or lend their name to any project that does not promise to be beneficent to man and the advancement of civilization." -John Fowler
photo credit: Rose-Hulman Institute
STEM From Passion | page 28
While there is an undeniable thrill in developing new products, most engineers are primarily driven by the desire to create technology capable of bettering people’s lives. Unfortunately, throughout the course of their education, many aspiring engineers become so focused on acquiring technical knowledge and skills that they lose sight of this. In an attempt to prevent this disillusionment, the Make It Happen program at the RoseHulman Institute of Technology sets out to give engineering students the opportunity to apply their technical skills to socially beneficial projects that they are genuinely passionate about.
theidea The Make It Happen program at RoseHulman University was founded by two students who had trouble finding opportunities to apply the technical engineering skills they’d been learning in the classroom to real-world problems since students weren’t able to interact with real clients until their senior year. Wanting more than to simply gain real-world engineering experience, however, the students approached teachers with an idea for a program focused on “humanitarian design.” “Humanitarian design is essentially the development of products that benefit humanity with less focus on profit margins,” Dr. Ashley Bernal, assistant professor for mechanical engineering and faculty coordinator for the Make It Happen program, explains. “Students who want to go into STEM often get bogged down by the education aspect of it all, which is why the humanitarian aspect is so important in STEM education— because it reminds students why they were passionate about STEM in the first place and instills in them an entrepreneurial mindset and global value into their work early on.” The students’ idea was approved, and
the Make It Happen program was brought to fruition. Its reach and impact has immensely grown over the years, but the program has remained steadfastly dedicated to its mission: helping students find their passion for engineering, giving them opportunities to make a difference in countless lives by working on a passion project without profit, and allowing them to focus on a humanitarian-approach to creating solutions that are tailored to the individual.
the development The main purpose of the Make It Happen program is to enable engineering students to earn course credit from participating in hands-on projects that benefit society. The program is run by a team of students who, before the start of each academic quarter, contact various nonprofit organizations and charities to be clients. They then learn about the problems these organizations face and consider ways that students could solve them with innovative technology. Interestingly, purely academic factors such as GPA are not considered during acceptance into the program— students are placed into teams based on the level of passion they have for a
particular project and how well their individual skill sets and backgrounds could contribute to the overall strength of the group. Level of experience isn’t a main criterion either; in fact, most participants are relatively inexperienced underclassmen! The facilitators’ dedication to forming teams from a wide variety of majors and class years fosters an environment of curiosity, growth, and collaboration. Students within each team can teach one another the unique skills they possess—for example, a mechanical engineering student may teach a computer science major how to use the tools in a machine shop. “Not only are students developing valuable communication skills and acquiring new knowledge, they are also honing their own craft teaching it to someone else,” Dr. Bernal explains. “I have always maintained that the best way to learn is through teaching.” Using the skills they’ve taught one another, ateam will embark on the design process under the guidance of a faculty advisor. Between interviewing their clients to understand their needs, developing a solution design, and implementing the technical components, collaboration is always at the heart of their work. STEM From Passion | page 29
theexecution Since the founding of the Make It Happen program, students have successfully completed many memorable projects for their growing network of clients. One such example is Make It Happen’s first project: a partnership with Accessibility for All, an organization dedicated to helping people with disabilities. The team was in charge of creating a product for a 5-year-old boy suffering from cerebral palsy who was unable to walk. After getting to know the boy and his disability, the students ultimately developed an assistive walking device by redesigning and reconstructing an old gait trainer to fit the child’s specific physical needs. Something Dr. Bernal and all the students involved with the project will never forget is a gift the child’s mother sent a while after he started using the device— a picture of him walking completely without assistance! Another memorable project was a partnership with the Heroes with New Hope Foundation, an organization that helps people et over perceived limitations. Their Make It Happen student team designed a horse saddle for their amputee veterans. In a letter sent to Make it Happen a few months later, the Heroes with New Hope Foundation expressed that the product product improved the mental health of the veterans immensely because it helped them realize they were still able to do things that brought them joy despite their amputations. Make It Happen projects aren’t limited to just mechanical engineering, though. In a partnership with a local historical society museum, students used their computer science skills to create a QR app that allows visitors to access educational videos and technical aid as they stroll through the museum. The group even incorporated an exciting time-travel theme to engage young children. “What makes the Make It Happen program so great is that it allows for students’ personal growth as well as skillset growth,” Dr. Bernal expresses. “It helps them to not be scared of ambiguity.”
STEM From Passion | page 30
taking action and
making it happen
Every year, the Make It Happen program finds more student participants and builds its network of nonprofit and charity partners, withsome old partners even coming back to the program with new issues they’re facing. Dr. Bernal hopes to continue on this trajectory of growth to introduce more aspiring engineers to the concept of humanitarian design, allowing them to reconnect with the roots of their passion for STEM. After all, what is innovation if not driven by humanitarian purpose?
Make It Happen is a studentled organization at RoseHulman Institute of Technology where multidisciplinary teams earn course credit while tackling humanitarian projects. Visit
www.rosehulman.edu/MIH to learn more.
BRUNSON
A HEART FOR HUMANITY: A TALK WITH
LISA MAE BRUNSON BY: ABIGAIL JOHNSON
A
t the age of three, Brunson learned to read and quickly began to ask questions about current events, using the newspaper as a source to base her inquiries. She wanted to know why things were the way they were and how njnthey came to be that way. Brunson faced challenges very early in her life, but they only fueled her determination to make positive change. As a woman of color coming from a multiracial and multicultural family, Brunson was often bullied by other kids and made to feel as though she didn’t fit in. “I just knew that it wasn’t right,” she recalls. “It wasn’t fair. And no one should have to live like that.” But Brunson never allowed the tormenting to inhibit her natural curiosity about the world and her desire to learn more. “I’m living my life purpose that I’ve had since I was a little girl,” Brunson explains. “It’s funny because my mom, she nknk page 32 | Lisa Mae Brunson
Those who met Lisa Mae Brunson as a young girl have described her as someone who was born to be a leader. As she grew up, Brunson continually asked questions in order to learn more about the world around her. With a natural interest in social dynamics and a focus specifically on equity for humanity, Brunson now strives to make a change in how the industry operates.
said ‘I feel like you were born knowing what you wanted. Today, Brunson runs Wonder Women Tech, an organization she founded to seek out and support individuals nationwide to pursue the STEAM industry. Wonder Women Tech strives to encourage others to confront the damaging social norms that are still seen in society today. These social norms include underrepresentation and discrimination based on race, gender, and sexual orientation. Through their conferences, workshops, hackathons, and panels, Wonder Women Tech inspires thousands of women who are underrepresented in their line of work. Before Wonder Women Tech, Brunson led “Wonder Women Hacks,” a successful series of hackathon initiatives started in collaboration with Arizona State University in 2014. These hackathons eventually led to the Wonder Women Hacks Conference later that year and finally, the vhvhv
I’ve had to prove myself to the tenth degree [with] everything I do. And every mistake I’ve ever made becomes three strikes against me. foundation of Wonder Women Tech in 2015. “We started working with elementary bjbjb school kids, middle school kids, high school kids from year one,” she says. “So we knew that we had to kind of create this life cycle of exposure… mkmkkmk to really tackle what was happening nknkn in this industry.” It was important to the Wonder bjbjbbj Tech team to educate the younger generation Women about problems that minorities experience in the STEAM community so that their students could enact positive oo change in the future. Through Wonder Women Tech’s events, Brunson is able to connect women across the country. Women from a variety of STEAM fields have traveled to hear her speak at conferences about the need for equality. Inspired by Brunson’s experiences, the conference attendees are often compelled to share their own stories with Brunson. “I have had people who were ready to get out of the field, and then they attended a Wonder Women Tech conference,” shares Brunson. “And they’re like ‘I decided to Lisa LisaMae MaeBrunson Brunson| |page page33 33 Lisa Mae Brunson | page 33
start an employee resource group.’ Or ‘I decided to stay and confront HR and ask for more money. And guess what, I got it.’” Although they have earned the support of many organizations and individuals over the past six years, Wonder Women Tech is still experiencing difficulty with funding their events and their cause. “I have personally been through discrimination. Companies will put six figures into a tech conference run by a white man, or even woman, and they will give me pennies in comparison,” says Brunson. “And I’ve seen that happen… it still happens to this day.”
Some of these steps may seem small, but working together can bring large waves of movement across the globe.
Discrimination in the workplace is still a common occurence, as Brunson explains, “I’ve come into tech spaces where it is predominantly men, and if they are women, they are white women, and I'll come in, and nobody will talk to me. I’ve actually had people literally turn their backs on me as I’m talking.” And this isn’t unique to Brunson—she has listened to the stories of several Black women who repeatedly experienced similar interactions. It is injustices like these that Brunson works to eliminate in our modern society. “One of the most disappointing aspects of this work is [seeing] that there is definitely an inequality here,” she says. “I’ve had to prove myself to the tenth degree [with] everything I do. And every mistake I’ve ever made becomes three strikes against me.” She believes activism in the modern age is incredibly important and that discriminatory social norms have been allowed to continue for too long without any interference. Brunson works to encourage equality for all people in their fields - whether it be by gender, race, orientation, or age. “I’m sure [there are a lot] of stories that I have no idea page 34 | Lisa Mae Brunson
about,” Brunson explains. “I think just by Wonder Women Tech being in the world, [we’re] already creating an impact and change.”
Not only does Brunson speak about creating equal njnjnjnjnjn opportunities and positive work environments, but she works within her community to make the differences she advocates for as well. At a time when a number of her loved ones were suffering from depression, Brunson realized the importance of human comfort. So, she traveled to see them in person and give them hugs. “It was realizing... that I needed a hug as well,” she explains. “And so I decided to do what I call the Love, Hugs, and Inspiration Campaign.” Brunson published a compilation of her poems and distributed them to those that she hugged. Her first campaign began in 2007 in Santa Monica and lasted four weeks. “I was really scared,” Brunson remembers. “Like who goes out and does these hugs?” But by the end, Brunson had connected with hundreds of people and learned much about the human condition. She decided to make the campaign an annual event around the holiday season. When she ran out of all 7,000 printed copies of her poetry compilation, Brunson hand-made Christmas, cards to distribute with the hugs. As of August 2020, Lisa Mae Brunson has hugged nearly 13,000 people.
Simple acts of kindness like these are steps in the right direction for a change in social standards. When asked about her thoughts on how to go about creating equal work environments for all, Brunson provided thoughtful insight. “Reverend Jesse Jackson came to speak at my conference in 2018… I asked him this question. I asked him, ‘How do you not burn out? How do you keep going?’ He said, ‘You just have to show up.’ It hit me so hard because showing up is the first step. Like no matter what. Even in the midst of a pandemic. Even in the midst of challenges. Even in the midst of disparity. Even in the midst of discrimination. Even in the midst of these experiences that we are dealing with.” Brunson explains how important it is to just be at an event or to simply represent a cause. Showing up at peaceful protests, being an activist for someone else, continuing education, mentoring others, rising to the occasion, and facing the challenges you come across are all ways to bring a change to the world. Some of these steps may seem small, but working together can bring large waves of movement across the globe.
By you showing up and being present, you’re counted and you matter.
By Brunson’s side follows her Chief Inspiration Officer, Gracie Bella Brunson, her adorable and loving puppy. Gracie is described as inspirational and has brought a large amount of support to Wonder Women Tech. “She really brightens up, not only my world but my team’s world,” Brunson says. “We all got to cultivate a relationship with her. And she’s so loving. She literally lives up to her name: Grace.” Gracie’s job is to create a space of positivity and success in the offices of bh Wonder Women Tech, an environment that mkBrunson hopes to promote in the nknkmodern workplace for all women.
Lisa Mae Brunson | page |35 Lisa Mae Brunson 35
HISTORICAL FIGURE: Jane
Hinton
1919-2003 BY: ERIN MITCHELL
1949, yearbook from the School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
Jane Hinton was born on May 1, 1919, in Boston, Massachusetts. Curiosity and a passion for science ran in the family, as her father was a professor at Harvard University and an expert in syphilis, so naturally she grew up with an interest in exploring and learning and expanding her worldview. This exploration continued into her schooling as she attended Simmons College in Boston, Massachusetts, where she studied General Science and participated in everything from theater and orchestra to the basketball team and student government.
A Brilliant Mind After completing her undergraduate degree at 20 years old in 1939, she worked in Harvard’s research laboratories. There, she developed her first long-standing scientific achievement: Mueller-Hinton Agar. Agar is a polymer that looks and acts like clear Jello but is much stronger and more durable and used to grow bacteria and other organisms for science experiments. It’s a gel at room temperature and comes from the cell walls of red algae like Gelidium, Pterocladia, and Gracilaria. Mueller-Hinton Agar, developed by Dr. Hinton, is flexible in its uses, though it is primarily used for testing antibiotics and their effectiveness, especially against bacteria that cause illnesses like Neisseria (causes meningitis) and Escherichia coli (E.coli). Dr. Hinton’s agar is used as the standard to test antibiotic susceptibility to this day.
In 1970. only 11% of veterinary students were female [...] In 2017, those numbers have shifted immensely: 55% of veternarians are female.
Soon after the development of the Mueller-Hinton agar, World War II began. During World War II, Penicillin was developed as an antibiotic and soldiers immediately started to develop resistance to the drug which required more and more research into new diseases and treatments. Continuing her exploration of the world that started when she was young, Dr. Hinton went to work as a civilian medical technician in a lab in Arizona. She worked under Dr. Hildrus Augustus Poindexter, an expert on tropical diseases, from 1942 to 1945. Their lab was responsible for reducing the malaria rate of soldiers in the Solomon Islands by 86.4% and diagnosing and treating schistosomiasis, a disease caused by a tiny worm entering the bloodstream.
After her graduation, she went on to practice as a small animal veterinarian in Canton, Massachusetts, from 1949 to 1955, diagnosing and treating dogs, cats, and other pets in her community. In 1955 she joined the Department of Agriculture as a federal government inspector, and became involved in research and response related to outbreaks of disease in livestock. Though she retired in 1960 at age 41, the University of Pennsylvania has continued to recognize her achievements and memory through events hosted in her honor. She died on April 9th, 2003, with a long list of outstanding accomplishments and scientific breakthroughs that still impact our world today.
After World War II, Hinton studied veterinary medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. In 1949, she became one of the first two African-American women, the other being Dr. Alfreda Johnson Webb from Tuskegee University, to earn the degree of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree (VMD). Hinton was both the first AfricanAmerican woman and fifth AfricanAmerican ever to graduate with a VMD from the University of Pennsylvania. She was also one of the first AfricanAmerican members of the Women’s Veterinary Association, founded to connect female veterinarians and work around issues of discrimination in the industry.
Dr. Jane Hinton was a pioneer in the field of veterinary medicine, breaking barriers for women from her graduation in 1949 to the end of her career. There was not significant growth of women in the field between 1949 and the early 1970s. In 1970, only 11% of veterinary students were female. Because of the lasting influence of changemakers like Dr. Hinton, in 2017, those numbers have shifted immensely 55% of veterinarians are female, and 45% are male. Without Dr. Jane Hinton taking that first step, representation in the veterinary profession would not be what it is today. Jane Hinton | page 37
page 38
GIRL GENIUS
By: Carla Sinclair
The scientists, doctors, engineers, inventors, innovators, and disrupters in “Girl Genius” have done incredible things—from developing life-saving medical breakthroughs and uncovering lost cities to inventing taco-delivery copters and experimenting with robots. Each mini-biography tells the story of a woman who has used her STEM skills to change the world. Boing Boing cofounder and author Carla Sinclar interviewed many of the game-changing women in the book PB: $12.99 to get to the heart of their inspiring STEM stories. Paperback: $12.99
By: Lilly Singh
HOW TO BE A BAWSE
#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • From the People’s Choice Award winner for Favorite YouTube Star and host of NBC’s upcoming “A Little Late with Lilly Singh” comes the definitive guide to being a bawse: a person who exudes confidence, hustles relentlessly, and smiles genuinely because he or she has fought through it all and made it out the other side. Digital: $14.99
RISE OF THE ROCKET GIRLS
By: Nathalia Holt
In the 1940s and 50s, when the newly minted Jet Propulsion Laboratory needed quick-thinking mathematicians to calculate velocities and plot trajectories, they didn't turn to male graduates. Rather, they recruited an elite group of young women who, with only pencil, paper, and mathematical prowess, transformed rocket design, helped bring about the first American satellites, and made the exploration of the solar system possible. “Rise of the Rocket Girls” tells the stories of these young women. Digital Price: $11.99
By: Andrea Gonzales and Sophie Houser
GIRL CODE
Perfect for aspiring coders everywhere, “Girl Code” is the story of two teenage tech phenoms who met at a Girls Who Code Summer Immersion Program, teamed up to create a viral video game, and ended up becoming world-famous. The book also includes bonus content to help you start coding! Get ready for an inside look at the tech industry, the true power of coding, and some of the amazing women who are shaping the world. Digital Price: $5.99
BECAUSE I WAS A GIRL
By: Melissa de la Cruz
“Because I Was a Girl” is an inspiring collection of true stories by women and girls about the obstacles, challenges, and opportunities they've faced…because of their gender. Edited by #1 New York Times-bestselling author Melissa de la Cruz, the book is the perfect gift for girls of all ages to celebrate the accomplishments of these women and girls who overcame adversity with their limitless potential. Digital Price: $11.99
page 40 | Holiday Reading List
By: Reshma Saujani BRAVE, NOT PERFECT As women, too many of us feel crushed under the weight of our own expectations. We run ourselves ragged trying to please everyone, pass up opportunities that scare us, and avoid rejection at all costs. As a result, we grew up to be women who are afraid to fail. It’s time to stop letting our fears drown out our dreams and narrow our world, along with our chance at happiness. By choosing bravery over perfection, we can find the power to claim our voice, to leave behind what makes us unhappy, and to go for the things we genuinely, passionately want. In “Brave, Not Perfect,” Reshma Saujani shares powerful insights and practices to help us let go of our need for perfection and make bravery a lifelong habit. Digital Price: $12.99
FINDING WONDERS By: Jeannine Atkins This “evocative and beautiful” (School Library Journal) novel “vividly imagines the lives of three girls” (Booklist, starred review) in three different time periods as they grow up to become groundbreaking scientists. Told in vibrant, evocative poems, this stunning novel celebrates the joy of discovery and finding wonder in the world around us. Digital Price: $7.49
By: James Essinger ADA'S ALGORITHM Over 150 years after her death, a widely-used scientific computer program was named “Ada,” after Ada Lovelace, the only legitimate daughter of the eighteenth century’s version of a rock star, Lord Byron. Why? Because, after computer pioneers such as Alan Turing began to rediscover her, it slowly became apparent that she had been a key but overlooked figure in the invention of the computer. In “,” James Essinger makes the case that the computer age could have started two centuries ago if Lovelace’s contemporaries had recognized her research and fully grasped its implications. Digital Price: $13.99
GIRLS THINK OF EVERYTHING
By: Catherine Thimmesh
In kitchens and living rooms, in garages and labs and basements, even in converted chicken coops, women and girls have invented ingenious innovations that have made our lives simpler and better. Their creations are some of the most enduring (the windshield wiper) and best loved (the chocolate chip cookie). What inspired these women, and just how did they turn their ideas into realities? Digital Price: $9.99
By: Laurie Halse Anderson
CATALYST
Meet Kate Malone - straight, a science and math geek, minister's daughter, ace long-distance runner, girlfriend, unwilling family caretaker, and emotional avoidance champion. Kate manages her life by organizing it, as logically as the periodic table. Then, like a string of chemical reactions, everything happens: the Malones' neighbors get burned out of their home and move in. Kate's life is less and less under control-and then, something happens that blows it all apart and forces her to examine her life, self, and heart for the first time. Digital Price: $8.99
Holiday Reading List | page 41
GENIUS: THE GAME By: Leopoldo Gout Welcome to the revolution. Get ready to run. In “Genius: The Game,” an action-packed young adult novel by Leopoldo Gout, three brilliant teens from around the world use their knowledge of hacking, engineering, espionage, and activism in a race to save the world. Digital Price: $7.80
By: Tracy Deebs PHANTOM WHEEL Being recruited by the CIA to join a top-secret intelligence program should be the opportunity of a lifetime. Instead, Issa, Harper, and Owen find themselves caught in a trap set in motion by a multi-billion dollar tech company with the goal of creating the ultimate computer virus. Horrified by what they’ve done, the hackers must team up to stop the virus before the world descends into chaos. Digital Price: $8.99
A CONSPIRACY OF STARS By: Olivia A. Cole Enter the vivid and cinematic world of Faloiv in the first book of this dazzling YA sci-fi/fantasy series, perfect for fans of “Carve the Mark,” “Red Rising,” and “These Broken Stars.” Octavia has always dreamed of becoming a whitecoat, one of the prestigious N’Terra scientists who study the natural wonders of Faloiv. So when the once-secretive labs are suddenly opened to students, she leaps at the chance to see what happens behind their closed doors. After a disturbing secret comes to light, Octavia finds herself on a collision course with the extremist, yet charismatic new leader of N’Terra’s ruling council. But by uncovering the mysteries behind the history she’s been taught, the science she’s lived by, and the truth about her family, she threatens to be the catalyst for an all-out war. Digital Price: $8.99
By: Harriet Reuter Hapgood THE SQUARE ROOT OF SUMMER Gottie's heart has been broken three times. First, when her best friend moved away without saying goodbye. Second, when her beloved grandfather died. Last, when her first love wouldn't even hold her hand at the funeral. With time travel, quantum physics, and sweeping romance, “The Square Root of Summer” is an exponentially enthralling story about love, loss and figuring it all out, from debut YA voice, Harriet Reuter Hapgood. Digital Price: $7.99
x+y
By: Eugenia Cheng
Why are men in charge? After years in the male-dominated field of mathematics and in the female-dominated field of art, brilliant mathematician Eugenia Cheng has heard the question many times. In “x + y,” Cheng argues that her mathematical specialty—category theory—reveals why and explains this by examining the complexity of gender and society to forge a path out of inequality. Digital Price: $16.99
page 42 | Holiday Reading List
Sea Turtle Endangerment:
An Ocean Ecosystem at Risk BY: JENN TOSO
PC: All photos were provided by the Loggerhead Marinelife Center
Loggerhead Marinelife Center | page 43
The plight of the sea turtle represents an urgent message. The oceans are in trouble, and without a healthy ocean ecosystem, the planet is in trouble, too. What makes the sea turtle so important? Why are they vital to the environment? Sea turtles are a keystone species, and losing a keystone species can damage the environment. Being a keystone species means that an entire ecosystem depends on that animal, and losing that species would be detrimental to every animal in that ecosystem. Sea turtles help manage the ocean, from keeping jellyfish and sponge populations in check through their diets, to helping plants on the beach that receive nutrients from their decomposing eggs. According to the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) the ocean provides over 50 percent of the air for the entire world, helps to regulate the climate, and provides transportation and recreation along with providing food and medicine. The health of the ocean is vital to the planet and vital to human survival. The Loggerhead Marinelife Center emphasizes the importance of the sea turtle in terms of the ocean: “The sea turtle tells us the health of the ocean, and the ocean tells us the health of our planet.”
Loggerhead Marinelife Center Lauren Eissey, PR & Engagement Specialist at Loggerhead Marinelife Center, explains further: “As an indicator species, sea turtles tell us the health of the ocean - they serve as a measure of the environmental conditions that exist in our oceans and are affecting marine life.” The employees of the Loggerhead Marinelife Center (LMC) in Palm Beach County, Florida, have been championing the cause for sea turtles for 35 years. Starting with Eleanor Fletcher, “The Turtle Lady” on Juno Beach, and progressing to the establishment it is today, the Center has logged thousands of hours dedicated to sea turtle survival. The curiosity and dedication of one woman have developed into 33 fulltime staff members, 25 part-time workers, and over 300 volunteers. With the help of this incredible support team, the Center can release over 100 sea turtles annually. The Gordan and Patricia Gray Hospital at LMC, thanks to generous donations, is a state-of-the-art facility with the primary goal of returning sick and injured turtles to the ocean. The Center outfits select turtles with a satellite tag that uses real-time tracking technology for research and patient tracking prior to the release of the turtle back into the wild. The tags are designed to track the turtles’ movement to get a better idea of nesting trends, as an educational resource, and to Loggerhead Marinelife Center | page 44
help understand the relationship between the turtle population and the health of the planet.
Sea Turtles in Crisis Sea turtles are telling the story of an unhealthy planet. Most, if not all, sea turtles are on the endangered species list. If the sea turtle population disappears, the health of the oceans will suffer. “Our sea turtles are the first to tell us the critical state of our oceans before anyone else,” according to Lauren. She talks about the number one offender in our oceans: “we are in a crisis as more and more microplastics are entering our everyday lifestyle down to what we eat and drink.” The health of the oceans is important to LMC, but not just because of the turtles. The Center realizes that the fate of the planet is resting on the health of one of the planet’s most important natural resources--the ocean. Education about this irreplaceable ecosystem is key to change. “The ocean covers 71 percent of the earth and is responsible for 50 percent of the air we breathe. Therefore, our Center is a gateway for guests to understand the magnitude of the oceans’ health and, ultimately, our health,” Lauren notes. The easiest thing for the public to do to help save the turtles and our oceans is to reduce the consumption of single-use plastic. Over eight million tons of plastic is found in our oceans annually. Items such as water bottles, balloons, and plastic baggies are not only wasteful, but they also end up in waterways and pose a danger to the ocean ecosystem. Sea turtles are not exempt from the plastic threat. The turtles that end up at the Gordan and Patricia Gray Hospital are often suffering from microplastics ingestion. Lauren discusses microplastics and their effect on ocean life: “100% of the post-hatchling sea turtles that arrive at our Center have ingested some form of microplastics. Not only are sea turtles harmed by ingesting plastic, which can cause choking or internal blockages, but they can also become entangled in larger pieces that raise serious physical implications.” Reducing the dependency on throw-away plastics is the tip of the iceberg when it comes to getting involved in saving our oceans and the planet. It’s a great start, and it’s where the majority of the general public will fit in terms of level of involvement. However, some people will feel a calling to do more; they will have a true connection to science and the life evolving around them. Loggerhead Marinelife Center | page 45
It won’t be enough to choose a glass of water rather than a disposal bottle. It will mean taking on bigger action items such as volunteering at a local marine facility, fundraising, or possibly getting involved in the local or political landscape. A person can engage in helping the oceans and sea turtles at any age, but as a young person trying to turn that passion into a career, Lauren suggests “becoming involved in the field as soon as you can - volunteer your time, participate in events, and immerse yourself in current discussions regarding the issues that pose a threat to wildlife and our natural world.” Lauren also points out that pursuing a career in ocean marine biology is not the only path a person can take to have an impact on sea turtle health. As a PR & Engagement Specialist at the Loggerhead Marinelife Center, Lauren is able to take her love of the ocean to educate and spread awareness to the public, which is just as vital a role as the hands-on biologist doing research or performing rehab on the patients. Ocean conservation roles come in all shapes and sizes; Lauren explains further: “We have job opportunities that transcend our Research and Rehabilitation Departments. Getting a degree in Education, with a love for oceanic wildlife, can be applied here at LMC, as we offer more than 40 public, school, and outreach programs.” Lauren goes on to say that the best way to help from a career in the field is to “get your feet wet.” The Loggerhead Marinelife Center has many local opportunities, or “experiences,” as the Center calls them, where the public can get involved. The Turtle Walks are one of the most popular experiences where the public can learn about and observe the nesting egglaying processes of the sea turtles. The Center is now even offering virtual walks, so the public can witness and feel the connection between the sea turtles and the health of the oceans from the comfort of their own homes. Turtles are one key to human survival. It’s not a situation to be taken lightly. The planet cannot recover itself without immediate human action. If the plight of the sea turtles is not addressed, the future of the oceans and the planet will continue to be in jeopardy until, ultimately, both will fail.
Follow them... @loggerheadmarinelifecenter Loggerhead Marinelife Center | page 46
REINVENTED'S TOP 10
INFLUENCERS
Emily Calandrelli Science Communicator TV Host Writer Looking to follow a woman in STEM who is out of this world? Emily Calandrelli is an alumna of West Virginia University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where she earned degrees in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautics & Astronautics, and Technology & Policy. Emily is known for being the TV host of the show "Xploration Outer Space" and the author of the children’s book series "Ada Lace". She can also be seen in episodes of Netflix’s "Bill Nye Saves the World" and is currently the host of Netflix’s "Emily’s Wonder Lab".
Why They're A Must-Follow? Emily was eight months pregnant during the filming of her show, "Emily’s Wonder Lab," which shows it is possible to be a working mom in the STEM fields. Now that’s breaking gender barriers! @thespacegal
The Space Gal
@TheSpaceGal
Bukola Ayodele Creator Software Engineer YouTuber Ever wondered what it was like to be a software engineer in a major city like the Big Apple? Bukola Ayodele is the woman to follow! She is unique because even though she currently works as a software engineer for Kensho Technologies, Bukola did not receive a degree in Computer Science! She received her Bachaelor of Arts in Political Science from Columbia University in 2016 and later decided to join the tech industry. Ever since her switch to Software Engineering, she has been providing tips for followers who are interested in joining the tech world.
Why They're A Must-Follow?
Mayuko Inoue Creator Software Engineer YouTuber Mayuko Inoue is a Software Engineer who has developed content for companies like Intuit, Patreon, and Netflix. After starting her YouTube channel and running it as a side-job for 2.5 years, Mayuko jumped into creating YouTube content full-time. Her online videos aim to help the next generation of Software Engineers by discussing how to juggle life while working in the tech industry.
Why They're A Must-Follow? As a second-generation Japanese American, Mayuko knows that being a minority working in STEM isn’t always easy. She doesn’t shy away from giving the younger generation advice on serious topics like imposter syndrome, cultural identity, and emotional vulnerability. @hellomayuko
Mayuko
page 48 | Top 10 STEM Influencers
@hellomayuko
Bukola’s videos show that it is never too late to switch into a field that you are passionate about. Check out her videos “How I Became a Software Engineer without a Computer Science Degree”! @bukola.dev
The Come Up
Dr. Georgia Atkin-Smith Scientist Biologist Science Communicator Dr. Georgia Atkin-Smith, also known as “Some Blonde Scientist,” is a cell biologist at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, where she performs research on cell death during the progression and treatment of cancer. In addition to her scientific research, Dr. Atkin-Smith advocates for women in STEM and often participates in outreach activities. She also loves to document her life as a scientist through her Instagram, Some Blonde Scientist.
Why They're A Must-Follow?
Sarafina Nance Astrophysicist Science Communicator Women’s Health Advocate
Dr. Atkin-Smith is a must-follow if you are interested in learning about someone who is making a difference in the medical field! Dr. Atkin-Smith has discovered various methods to study the cell death process, which she calls the “dance of death,” and how this process can impact infectious disease and cancer. @someablondscientist
Georgia Atkin-Smith
@SomeBlondSci
Sarafina Nance is a research fellow and PhD candidate who specializes in supernovae and cosmology and uses that knowledge to study the composition and fate of the universe. Her research has been recognized in a variety of scientific publications, like Space.com, BBC, Sky & Telescope, and National Geographic. Sarafina is also a science communicator—she mentors young women on topics like imposter syndrome, self-doubt, and confidence.
Why They're A Must-Follow? As a women’s health advocate and someone who was diagnosed with a cancer-causing gene mutation, Sarafina is vocal about the importance of genetic testing, self-checks, and preventative medicine, which are things that women should always be reminded of. @starstrickensf
Sarafina Nance @starstrickensf
Top 10 STEM Influencers | page 49
Imogene Cancellare Wildlife Biologist Scientist Presenter Are you interested in following a woman that likes to live on the wild side? Imogene Cancellare is a Conservation Biologist and National Geographic Explorer who is currently pursuing her Ph.D. at the University of Delaware. For her Ph.D., Imogene has been researching phylogeography and the genetic structures of snow leopards across High Asia, which ultimately helps with snow leopard conservation. She also uses her biology knowledge and experience as a communicator and presenter to generate educational content for the next generation.
Why They're A Must-Follow? As a science communicator, Imogene works with SciFari Expeditions and Atlas Obscura to lead ecotourism groups throughout the Amazonian rainforests of Peru. She loves to teach people about biodiversity, science, and the importance of getting outside. @biologistimogene
@biologistimo
Karina Popovich Maker Speaker Entrepreneur Karina Popovich is a Cornell University student that considers 3D printing to be her superpower. She has been using these skills to make a change during COVID19. Karina is the Founder and Lead Organizer of Makers for COVID-19, a project which focuses on creating 3D printed personal protective equipment (PPE) for medical professionals who are working on the frontlines during the pandemic. As a first-generation Ukrainian, Karina is also dedicated to closing the social gaps in STEM through her projects like Alpha and Proto and her work as an If/Then She Can Ambassador.
Why They're A Must-Follow? Through her creation of Makers for COVID-19, Karina shows her followers that, despite your young age, anyone can use their STEM skills to help others! @karina.popovich
page 50 | Top 10 STEM Influencers
Nina Chhita Biologist Medical Writer Illustrator Nina Chhita brings together her passions of art and science through her Instagram page @nina.draws.scientists, where she creates beautiful illustrations of historical and current women in STEM. Through her posts, Nina educates her followers on women in STEM who haven’t received enough recognition in the media. Did we mention that Nina also received her Master’s degree in Developmental Biology from the University of Bath? When she is not painting pictures, she uses her educational background working as a medical writer in Vancouver.
Why They're A Must-Follow? Nina’s illustrations feature women in a variety of fields, which reminds the younger generation that they can pursue any career they put their mind to. She also destroys the stereotype that women can’t be accomplished in both STEM and art! @nina.draws.scientists
@Nina_Chhita
Ximena Martinez STEM Advocate Educator Designer Mena Martinez is a first generation Latina who has a background in marketing and information systems and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Higher Education and Student Affairs. Through her blog, Latina Powerpuff, Mena shares her passions for STEM education, advocacy, design, art, and anime. Her goal is to use her platform to encourage young women and girls to pursue careers in STEM fields. She is also a great designer and creates all of her own merchandise; check out her online store for some empowering shirts, stickers, and mugs!
Why They're A Must-Follow?
Dr. Julia Shaw Astrophysicist Science Communicator Women’s Health Advocate
As an activist, Mena provides useful resources and information on topics like climate change, STEM stereotypes, women’s rights, and politics. @latinapowerpuff
@latinapowerpuff
Dr. Julia Shaw is a psychological scientist at the University College London who specializes in memory and criminal psychology. She is the author of the bestselling book, “The Memory Illusion,” and co-host of the BBC podcast, “Bad People.” Dr. Shaw is also the CoFounder of Spot, an AI reporting system that helps businesses tackle problems with workplace harassment. In addition to her work in TV, radio, and print, she is a regular keynote speaker and even consults as an expert on legal cases.
Why They're A Must-Follow? When Dr. Shaw is not studying the human mind, she is passionate about promoting diversity and inclusion. She is the Founder of the Bisexual Research Group, an organization that works to better understand the bisexual, pansexual, polysexual, plurisexual, queer, fluid, and unlabeled experience in order to provide that demographic more visibility and inclusion. @drjuliashaw
@drjuliashaw
Top 10 STEM Influencers | page 51
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Starry Night Mask , t n e g u l f f e
l il y p a d , brown dog gadget As masks become a necessity, we may as well match masks with our outfits, like this lit-up constellation design in the Starry Night series.
BY: KITTY YEUNG
Materials Hardware Components
Hand tools and fabrication machines
x1 Efflugent GLOSILQ LED Fiber Soldering iron (generic) x1 SparkFun LilyPad Coin Cell Battery Holder - Switched 20mm
Solder Wire, Lead Free Sewing machine (generic)
x1 SparkFun LilyTwinkle (optional) Brown Dog Gadgets Maker Tape (1/4") SparkFun LilyPad Rainbow LED (strip of 7 colors) Chibitronics Circuit (STEM) Starter Kit
Stickers
Story Make a mask that matches your Starry Night shirt and make it light up like a constellation. This tutorial was conducted live for students at FIRSTWashington. The followalong video can be found here (https://m.twitch.tv/videos/718394108) . In this tutorial, we used individual LEDs from Chibitronics or Sparkfun and the conductive tape from Brown Dog Gadgets to make customized soft circuits. I later iterated on a different construction using Effulgent LED thread. I'll write about both methods in the following instructions. Both are handmade processes, great for prototyping but not ready for production. However, my fashion brand, Art by Physicist (https://shop.kittyyeung.com), collaborated with Novacentrix on a scalable and repeatable solution using printed electronics. For people who want to buy a mask (or a shirt) with the soft circuit of their choice of constellations, instead of making their own, they can order from Art by Physicist starting in November. If you just like the constellation fabric and want a plain mask without the electronics, you can order from Kitty's store now. page 54 | DIY: Starry Night Mask
Mask Construction 1.1 Cut the fabrics I found a nice face mask pattern on Craft Passion. You can choose a type of mask there and download the PDF. I chose the one that's a double layer with a pocket design and a lining. I cut four lining pieces and two self-fabric pieces (the fabrics with graphics on) because I wanted to make a three-layer mask. Alternatively, you can just prepare one layer of the self-fabric and one layer of the lining, if you are wearing this mask over another mask. As the masks we make at home are not medical grade, I'd highly recommend we make this as a decorative mask that goes over an actual medically protective mask.
1.2 Sew the patterns together Sew each pair together along the nose/mouth line. (Touch the front side, i.e. the graphics side, of the fabrics together so you sew along the back side.) If you have a overlock sewing machine, it'll make the edges even cleaner. But it is not required.
1.3 Finish the seams Sew the self-fabrics together, again touching the right/graphics sides together. You can pin them together first. I used the overlock sewing machine. But a normal sewing machine would also be fine, since you will flip the inside out and all the seam edges will be hidden inside. Do not sew the two cheek sides together yet. DIY: Starry Night Mask | page 55
1.4 Attach ribbons I like using ribbons to tie the mask around my head (and they don't hurt my ears). Because we will add electronics inside the mask, we can leave one side of the cheek open so it can be a pocket, but close the other side so the electronics won't fall out. I'll be adding electronics on the left side only, so I'm closing the left side. The ribbons are attached to each side differently. The self-fabric has a longer cheek than the lining. Sew the ribbon for the left side with the back side out along the self-fabric. Then feed the ribbons into the gap so that the ribbons will be on the outside when you flip the fabrics. Then close the gap with a normal straight stitch. Flip the fabrics and you will find the ribbons extending out nicely. For the right cheek, we don't want to close the seam. We will sew the ribbon directly along the self-fabric's back side. Fold the longer end over to cover the seam and secure along the edges at both fabric/ribbon intersections. Now you have attached the ribbons and left an opening to access the side of the mask.
1.5 Finishing lines To make the masks sturdier, you can sew along the edges of the mask (except the opening end) and press it flat.
Soft Circuit Now the fun part about constructing the circuit. We will make two types. Choose which ever that is suitable for your design. There are pros and cons in either approach, which we will discuss below.
2.1 Design the configuration Because this is a Starry Night fabric and I'd like to match it with a light-up constellation. The Big Dipper is a highly recognizable constellation and the stars are in an easy configuration, I'll use it for demonstration.
Option 1: tape the electronics If you use the individual LEDs with the conductive tape, you will first determine where to place each electronic component before taping them. Here I'm using the Chibitronics LED stickers. Make sure all the "-" signs are pointing in the same direction so you can tape them together easily. Then you will have one line going to a "-" sign on the battery holder. Each "+" sign should connect to the either "+" sign on the battery holder. So the LEDs are connected in parallel. page 56 | DIY: Starry Night Mask
The advantage of using the LED stickers and conductive tapes is that they are very easy to apply to fabrics. The circuit is soft. However, the conductivity may vary and connections may sometimes be unstable. As you can seen from the picture above, one of the LED is not fully lit up at this moment but it does light up if I bend the circuit a bit. The result of this circuit on the mask is that the light flickers as my face moves. P.s. if you'd like to purposely add twinkle to the lighting effect, you can add a LilyTwinkle microcontroller that blinks the LEDs at random. See my Twinkle Nail Art project to learn more about LilyTwinkle.
Option 2: solder the electronics A stronger circuit would involve soldering. Effulgent has this really nice LED threads that come in different colors. Since the Big Dipper is linear, you can easily use a string of 7 LEDs and bend it into the shape of the constellation. Split the ends of the LED thread and solder each ends to a thicker normal multi-strand wire. Counterintuitively, the red thread is the "-" end and the copper/orange thread is the "+" end. I also added heat shrink tubing to protech the ends. Then solder the two wires to the corresponding pins on the battery holder.
2.2 Sew the electronics onto the fabric The nice thing about the LED thread is that it is very thin and you can attach it to the fabric by embedding it in a zig-zag stitching line. Either hand sew or using the sewing machine. You can also do the same zig-zag to sew the wires and battery holders onto the fabric. Comparing to the individual LEDs, the LED thread is a bit smaller and are not as bright. Also the design may be limited by its linearity, whereas the individual LEDs may give more design freedom.
3. Assembly Finally, you can place the soft circuit into the mask. Since my design is only on one side of the lining, I decided to cut off the extra bit. This depends on your design. I also used the overlock to lock the edges. Than insert the circuit from the pocket opening we left in the mask earlier. Now you have a beautiful night sky for a mask that shows so much of your personality! Don't stop there. How about making your own constellations! It may not be so straightforward as the Big Dipper though since a lot of the other constellations are not representable with linear circuit arrangements. That's when the products we developed at Art by Physicist X Novacentrix become brilliantly useful :) DIY: Starry Night Mask | page 57
OPPORTUNITY Te c h To g e th e r N ew Yo rk
Where: Virtua l When: Dec. 4 t h -6 th, 2020 Wha
t: TechTog supportive, str ether values a ong, community. B and healthy circumstance ecause of s COVID-19, Tec surrounding h Together Ne York 2020 wil l be hosted vir w tually this year. https://newyo rk.techtogeth er.io/
TechTogether Atlanta Where: Virtual When: Dec. 4th-6th, 2020
What: The Atlanta chapter of TechTogether hosts this annu al hackathon to promote inclus ivityfocused research and provide professional development resources. https://newyork.techtogether. io/
page 58 | Opportunity Board
TechTogether Seattle Where: Virtual When: Dec. 4th-6th, 2020
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DeveloperWeek Hackathon Where: Virtual When: Feb 8-19, 2021
What: Each year, 8,000+ developers, engineers, software architects, dev teams, managers, and executives from 70+ countries gather to discover the latest in developer technologies, languages, platforms, and tools.
https://www.developerweek.com/ events/hackathon/ Opportunity Board | page 59
Ask Gloria Gloria Kimbwala
is CEO and founder of Shule, a startup that tokenizes international experiential learning systems in decentralized education. Previously to venturing out on her own, she was Square's University Tech Evangelist where she focused on helping connect people to the tools, programs, and support they need to enter the technology industry. This includes leading programs such as Square's Code Camps, an immersion program that supports college women in pursuing careers in technology. She was recently named on the Top Ten Women in Fintech by Fintech Ranking. Her non-traditional path into technology includes a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies and a Master's degree in Computer Science. Gloria is the Technical Advisor on the Society of Women Coder's (SOWCoder's) Board which brings technical skills to women across the globe. In her spare time, you can find her coding with her sons, doing yoga, and playing the drums.
Do you have any advice for navigating and maintaining multi/interdisciplinary passions in college and beyond? Seeking knowledge is ongoing, and it doesn’t have to stop with college. College is a time to explore new things, and I love it when students are able to explore their passions, but it’s important to remember that one of the goals of college is to graduate and pursue the next phase of your life. That being said, it’s important to apply a growth mindset towards everything that you do. Interdisciplinary studies help bring outside perspectives to different areas and that is always an asset. As you continue in life, it’s important to be yourself and bring your insight to everything that you do. Also, it’s great to remember that, even after you graduate, you can still continue your personal learning through books, travel, courses, podcasts, and personal challenges. Having multiple focuses is not a bad thing, as long as you can balance and prioritize your focuses.
How do you navigate climbing the corporate ladder? Just like there are many ways to move up a building, there are many ways to move up the corporate ladder. Your organization could grow to the point where you have people working under you. You could gain more expertise around a topic and become an expert or highly skilled employee; or you could move from role to role, taking on new responsibilities and compensation as you grow. The best way to climb the corporate ladder, in my opinion, is to understand the requirements of the position that you want and discuss with a manager or mentor what you need to do to get that position. Once you have the majority of the requirements, apply to the position. The most important part of climbing the corporate ladder is to enjoy what you are doing, what you are working on, and who you work with. There is more to life than your job title.
How do you capitalize on high-level mentors? High-level mentorship is always a gift and I try to make sure I capture every piece of wisdom that comes out of that mentorship. There are many ways to capture that wisdom. I tend to remember advice better if I write it down or if I have some way to reference back to them. With my mentor, I have an ongoing Google Doc that I write advice in. That google doc also has an agenda that is used every time we meet so we both know what we are discussing. Lastly, be respectful of your mentor’s time and use it efficiently. page 60 | Ask Gloria
How do you ask someone to be a mentor? Mentorship can come in a lot of different forms. Sometimes the mentorship is formal and long-lasting, other times it is short and focused around a particular topic or project. The easiest way to ask for someone’s mentorship is to ask, “Do you mind if I reach out and ask you more questions about this topic.” or “I would love to put some time on your calendar to discuss…”. After you do this a couple of times, you can find a cadence that works for you and your mentor. Sometimes questions can be answered via text, email, or Slack, in between scheduled meetings. - just make sure to use each other’s time wisely.
What inspired you to help young girls like us by giving advice and help?
I am personally inspired by my niece Leila. She is a very bright girl that loves all things STEM. She reminds me a lot of myself. I did not have any guidance or encouragement to get into STEM when I was young, but I have a lot of hope that the current generation of Steminist and STEM advocates can create an environment where everyone knows that STEM fields are inclusive places for all and everyone feels welcome in their field of choice. Helping others during their STEM journey helps turn my dream into a reality and creates a more inclusive society for all the other Leilas out there.
How do you stay motivated to step out of your comfort zone? I think it's easy to get caught up in work and not engage myself in really living life. You only live once, so you might as well make the most out of each day. The way that I step out of my comfort zone is to reward myself for the attempt of the venture, not the venture itself. If I want to run a marathon, I reward myself for training, signing up, and actually running the marathon. Not just how fast I ran the marathon. I also worry less about what others think and put more value on what I will think if I don’t give it a try. There are some things I have tried that I would never do again and other things that I ended up loving! Once you start to reward yourself for doing the scary thing, you start to be more comfortable doing the scary thing over and over again.
Throughout your journey, did you ever feel discouraged, and if so, how did you motivate yourself to keep going? It’s very easy to get discouraged during your journey in tech. I usually get discouraged when I compare myself to others in their journey or think about where I think I should be. What motivates me during this time is to look at the accomplishments that got me to where I am, and to create immediate short term goals. Most recently, I was learning a new technology; instead of being discouraged that I hadn’t “mastered” this piece of technology in my career already, I was encouraged that I was able to get through the tutorial with ease and celebrated that I finished the tutorial without giving up. My advice is to create an ongoing list of your accomplishments, have short term goals that lead up to a major goal, and focus on yourself. We all move at our own pace towards goals that are important to us and any movement in the general direction of those goals is a good one.
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Thank You Partners
To our partners who helped to make this magazine possible through their generosity and dedication to encouraging more women in STEM.
Codenovate page 62 | Partners
One-for-One Program Participants
These participating organizations and institutions will receive free copies of Reinvented magazine to encourage more girls to pursue and love STEM.
One-for-One | page 63
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Issue 6 Winter 2020