I’m pleased to announce that I have been elected the Pod Coordinator for the Orono Pod of 500 Women Scientists! This spring, I hope to expand membership in and around Orono, connect with other inclusion and STEMM groups in Maine, and roll out some new initiatives and public engagement events.

500 Women Scientists is a non-profit, grassroots organization started by four women. Immediately following the November 2016 election, they published an open letter re-affirming their commitment to speak up for science and for all genders, minorities, immigrants, people with disabilities, and LGBTQIA. This commitment became a global movement, and that movement has blossomed into a formal organization dedicated to improving science communities. As of January 2018, 500 Women Scientists has over 20,000 members and supporters.

Building communities and fostering real change comes from small groups, not large crowds. Our local pods help create those deep roots through strong, personal relationships. Pods focus on issues that resonate in their communities, rooted in our mission and values. As women in science, technology, engineering and math, as role models to young girls and women, as leaders in our communities, we accept this challenge. Accept this challenge with us.

I was previously a Pod Coordinator in Eugene, where I coordinated group networking and public engagement events with a fabulous group. I’m looking forward to developing the same heartfelt connections here.

Featured Image Credit: 500 Women Scientists