Event Schedule
33rd Annual Susan M. Arseven '75 Conference for Women in Science and Engineering
Check-In/Breakfast (MSC 2400)
3:00 PM
Welcome and WISE Introduction
3:30 PM
Session I
3:45 PM
Resilience, Perseverance and Humor in Aerospace Leadership
Dr. Ivett A. Leyva Department Head, Aerospace Engineering
In this brief I will talk about my career trajectory, challenges, and contributions to the field of hypersonic aerodynamics and liquid rocket instabilities and how resilience, perseverance, and humor have played a part in my career.
Bridging Boundaries: An Unconventional STEM-Related Career
Dr. Barbara Gastel, MD, MPH Professor of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences and of Humanities in Medicine, Texas A&M University
I have been fortunate to pursue a career bridging boundaries between STEM-related and humanities-related fields, between academic and professional worlds, and between the United States and other countries. In this talk, I will present some highlights of this career, which has included attending college as one of the first women undergraduates at Yale, teaching in China early in the years of reestablishing ties with the United States, and directing the Texas A&M master’s degree program in science and technology journalism almost continuously since its establishment in the mid-1990s. Along the way, I will discuss some challenges faced, some lessons learned, and some thoughts about the future. I look forward to answering questions at the end of my remarks and to talking with fellow attendees at other times during the conference.
Break
4:35 PM
Session II
4:50 PM
Five decisions that shaped my scientific career
Dr. Tatyana Igumenova
Associate Professor of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University
MSC 2406 A
Academic career is akin to a marathon that requires making strategic decisions at various stages. These decisions, especially the difficult ones, offer enormous opportunities for growth and scientific development. I will discuss the five most impactful decisions that shaped my scientific journey -- from being a chemistry undergraduate student in the heart of Siberia to becoming a Texas A&M faculty member with an extarmurally funded program in biophysics and structural biology.
Fueled by Curiosity: My Journey as a Cancer Researcher and STEM Educator
Dr. Tapasree Roy Sarkar, Assistant Professor of Biology, Texas A&M University
MSC 2406 B
From a young age, my innate curiosity has driven me to seek answers to complex questions, ultimately leading me to a career in cancer research. The mystery behind what drives this devastating disease captivated me, as so much remains unknown. My work as a cancer researcher allows me to explore these unanswered questions, uncovering insights that could lead to better treatments and outcomes. This journey has been both intellectually stimulating and deeply rewarding. In addition to my research, I am passionate about STEM education, inspiring the next generation of scientists to embrace curiosity and critical thinking. In this talk, I will share my experiences at the intersection of cancer research and education, highlighting the challenges, breakthroughs, and the profound impact of scientific discovery.
Break
5:40 PM
Keynote Speaker (MSC 2400) and Lunch
5:45 PM
Breaking Barriers: A Journey of Growth, Leadership, and Empowerment
Dr. Fuhui Tong, Associate Provost and Dean of the Graduate and Professional
School, Texas A&M University
In this keynote address, Dr. Fuhui Tong, Professor of Educational Psychology, and Associate Provost and Dean of the Graduate and Professional School at Texas A&M University, reflects on her journey navigating challenges, embracing growth, and stepping into leadership. Drawing from her personal and professional experiences, Dr. Tong emphasizes the importance of mentorship, the power of education as a science, and the values of empathy and humility in leadership. She highlights the significance of embracing various perspectives and creating environments that empower individuals to contribute their best. This address encourages attendees to pursue their own paths with confidence, purpose, and a commitment to supporting one another.
Make-a-Difference Award
6:45 PM
Session III
7:00 PM
Reflections on my Journey as a Professor and as a Scientist
Dr. Perla Balbuena, University Distinguished Professor of Chemical Engineering
and Chemistry, Mike O’Connor Chair, Texas A&M University
MSC 2406 A
In this talk I would like to share with you the main aspects of my life as a scientist and as a professor. I will explain how I got here, and why I think this is a rewarding experience, stimulated by a constant evolution of knowledge, a deep sense of fulfillment in guiding young minds, and the thrill of discovery through research, all while navigating the challenges of balancing these demanding roles and embracing the dynamic nature of academia. Looking forward, I am excited to continue exploring new research avenues, mentoring the next generation of scientists, and contributing to the advancement of knowledge in my field, always striving to bridge the gap between theoretical understanding and real-world applications.
Creating a non-toxic career in the field of toxicology
Dr. Natalie Johnson Associate Professor, Texas A&M University
Dr. Natalie Johnson’s career at Texas A&M has been dedicated to advancing environmental toxicology research. In this talk, she reflects on key lessons learned from her journey, navigating scientific discovery, mentorship, and leadership, and explores how toxicology continues to push the frontiers in environmental health. Through her experiences, Natalie offers insights into leadership roles of women in science and a vision for the future of inclusive and impactful research.
Break
7:50 PM
Speaker Panel
8:00 PM
Closing Remarks
8:30 PM
