Modern Figures Podcast: Recent Episodes
Modern Figures Podcast Hosts
Episode 89 – What we wish we knew before becoming Faculty
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
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LinkedIN – Jeremy
LinkedIN – Kyla
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Episode Description:
At the conclusion of Season 6 – we’re at a crossroads and it’s…a lot.
Jeremy and Kyla pull back the curtain on the raw, real struggles of life as faculty—juggling the impossible trifecta of research, teaching, and endless service. In another installation of the Black-ademic series, they don’t sugarcoat the burnout, boundary battles, or the constant hustle to keep academia from swallowing you whole.
This episode dives deep into their personal wins and failures, revealing the hidden costs of “success” in higher education. Along the way, they celebrate the game-changing voices they’ve featured this season and reflect on powerful moments from the Podcast Summit and upcoming conferences.
If you think academia is just about books and lectures, think again. This is about community, mentorship, and fighting to find real meaning in a system built to wear you down.
Bios:-::
Kyla’s Bio–
Dr. Kyla McMullen is a tenured faculty member at the University of Florida’s Computer & Information Sciences & Engineering Department. Dr. McMullen has a personal commitment to encouraging women and minorities to pursue careers in computing and other STEM fields, and is the leader of the SoundPAD Laboratory at the University of Florida, which focuses on the Perception, Application, and Development of 3D audio. Her current projects include: (1) psychoacoustic analysis of the quality of customized head-related transfer functions, (2) using 3D audio to sonify positional data for situational awareness, (3) discovering critical interface design techniques for developing virtual auditory environments, and (4) using 3D audio to increase immersion and realness in virtual and augmented reality.
Jeremy’s Bio–
Dr. Jeremy A. M. Waisome is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Engineering Education. Her research focuses on effective mentoring strategies for underrepresented populations in Engineering. She earned her Bachelor and Master of Science degrees and Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the University of Florida (UF), and now serves on the UF Ronald E. McNair Advisory Board. She is also a member of the Associate Provost’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee at UF. In 2018, she was awarded the Mike Shinn Distinguished Member of the Year (Female) by the National Society of Black Engineers. In 2017, she was inducted into the Edward A. Bouchet Graduate Honor Society. In addition, Dr. Waisome was inducted into UF Hall of Fame (2010) and is a recipient of the UF Outstanding Leadership Award (2010).
Episode 88 – Felecia, Uninterrupted
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Felecia Hatcher
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feleciahatcher.com
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Episode Description:
Felecia Hatcher joins Kyla and Jeremy to share her inspiring journey from a diverse career in experiential marketing to becoming the CEO of Pharrell Williams’ Black Ambition Opportunity Incorporated. Felecia discusses the importance of challenging traditional educational paths, her passion for empowering underrepresented entrepreneurs, and building resilience through innovation. Her candid reflections highlight the significance of pursuing dreams despite obstacles, fostering inclusive innovation, and leveraging unique opportunities for those with world-bending ideas. Discover Felecia’s insights on breaking barriers and building a legacy for future entrepreneurs.
Bio:-::
Felecia’s Bio–
Felecia Hatcher is a trailblazer, a catalyst for change, and a relentless advocate for equity in the innovation economy. As the CEO of Pharrell Williams’ Black Ambition Opportunity Inc., she stands at the forefront of a movement that empowers diverse entrepreneurs with world-bending ideas with the capital, mentorship, and world-class resources they need to thrive. Under her leadership, Black Ambition has become a beacon of hope and opportunity, connecting entrepreneurs to over $100 million in funding, resources, and contracts. Hatcher’s work is not just about leveling the playing field—it’s about rewriting the rules of the game entirely, ensuring that underrepresented founders are seen, valued, and financially rewarded for their contributions to the innovation economy.
Her transformative impact has earned her widespread recognition and accolades. In 2014, she was honored as an Obama White House Champion of Change for her work in advancing STEM access and diversity. She has been named a Harvard Young American Leader, a Comcast/Nationswell Tech Impact Allstar, an Echoing Green Fellow, a BME Vanguard Fellow, and a Black Enterprise TechConnect Game Changer. Her influence has been celebrated by Forbes, The Today Show, Good Morning America, Bloomberg, MSNBC, and The Grio, which named her one of 100 African Americans Making History.
Hatcher’s work has been backed by an impressive coalition of supporters, including the Knight Foundation, Comcast/NBC Universal, Morgan Stanley, Lennar, Chanel, Surdna Foundation, LVMH, Adidas, Emerson Collective, the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, Heineken, and Ford. These partnerships underscore the universal recognition of her mission: to dismantle systemic barriers and create pathways for underrepresented communities to excel in the innovation economy.
Before her role at Black Ambition, Hatcher co-founded Black Tech Week and The Center for Black Innovation, two groundbreaking initiatives that have redefined resource accessibility for students, communities, and entrepreneurs. Through her partnership with Comcast and the Hour of Code, she helped over 2 million students and educators gain access to critical digital tools, bridging the gap between opportunity and talent. Her corporate career is equally impressive, with roles as a marketing executive for the Minnesota Lynx/Timberwolves and as an experiential marketing and brand manager for industry giants like Sony, Nintendo, and McKee Foods. These experiences equipped her with the insights and expertise to navigate the intersection of innovation, culture, and business.
A successful entrepreneur in her own right, Hatcher built a venture-backed food company in 2013 and has seen two of her companies acquired, a testament to her business acumen and ability to turn bold ideas into thriving enterprises.
Today, Hatcher’s influence extends across multiple platforms. She serves on the Amazon Black Business Accelerator Advisory Board, a $150 million initiative dedicated to supporting Black-owned businesses. She is also a member of the SXSW Diversity Advisory Board, the Beacon Council Board, International Women’s Forum, the Center for Black Innovation, and the Airie Foundation. Her work in building inclusive innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystems has been so impactful that it has been featured in two Harvard Business School case studies.
As a sought-after consultant and transformational speaker, Hatcher works with industry titans like Amazon, Google, Spotify, DoorDash, Target, Samsung, Walmart, and Etsy. Her expertise in inclusive innovation and business strategy empowers organizations to reimagine their approach to diversity and inclusion, while inspiring teams to step into their Zone of Genius. Her ability to merge visionary thinking with actionable strategies has made her an indispensable ally for companies committed to driving meaningful change.
Hatcher is also a prolific author, with five books and publications to her name: Genius Jam, Start a Business on a Ramen Noodle Budget (Peterson’s), Focused, Pivot, Pitch, and Paid, and The C Student’s Guide to Scholarships (Peterson’s). Her written works reflect her deep understanding of entrepreneurship, innovation, and the power of resourcefulness.
In addition to her books, Hatcher has authored several thought-provoking white papers, including:
• The Deficit Framing of Black Entrepreneurs in Media, Corporations, and Foundations
• Ridding Black Communities of Innovation Deserts
• Frameworks for Defining, Assessing, and Developing Black Tech and Startup Communities
These publications challenge conventional narratives and provide actionable insights for creating more equitable ecosystems.
Felecia Hatcher is more than a leader—she is a force of nature, reshaping the innovation landscape and ensuring that the future of entrepreneurship is as diverse as the world it serves.
3 Fun facts about Hatcher: She got married in a hippie donut shop, her entrepreneurial journey began when she fell down chasing an ice cream truck in heels, and she loves silly jokes from her 6-year-old and 11-year-old kids, the kind that make her jaws hurt.
Episode 87 – Jumping into the Deep End
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Quincy K. Brown
Connect on social:
quincykbrown.com
Past episode mentioned
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Episode Description:
Join Jeremy and Kyla as they engage with Dr. Quincy K. Brown, an influential figure in STEM policy and education. Quincy shares her inspiring journey from growing up in the Bronx to becoming an established expert in computer science and policy. Learn about her transitions from academia to policy-making, her work in the White House, and her venture into entrepreneurship with Futures and Innovation. Explore how community, education, and perseverance have shaped her path and the impact she continues to have on future generations in STEM.
Bio:-::
Quincy’s Bio–
Quincy drives high-impact programs at the intersection of education, workforce development, and technology, with a focus on equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Across two presidencies, she has shaped national policy, aligning federal agencies, nonprofit and industry partners to launch novel initiatives. She is a proven expert who leverages data-driven insights, strategic partnerships, and evidence-based research to shape national policy, scale innovative initiatives, and cultivate cross-sector collaborations.
Quincy is adept at guiding federal agencies, nonprofits, and industry stakeholders to address critical challenges in STEM education, workforce development, and inclusive technology adoption. She is passionate about advancing economic inclusion and sustainable growth through the responsible application of emerging technologies.
Episode 86 – She Did It First
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Sandra K. Johnson
Connect on social:
www.sandrakjohnson.com
softpowerforthejourney.com
Black Women on Boards
**The first 5 listeners to tag us on a video sharing how this episode inspired you gets a free copy of one of Dr. Johnsons’ books!
Note: make sure your profile is public.
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Episode Description:
Dr. Sandra K. Johnson made history as the first Black woman to earn a PhD in computer engineering — and she’s just getting started. In this inspiring conversation, she joins hosts Kyla and Jeremy to share her journey from Louisiana to IBM, her leap into fintech and venture capital, and how she’s empowering the next generation of African diaspora entrepreneurs. Tune in for insights on resilience, innovation, and thriving in spaces where few have gone before.
Bio:-::
Sandra’s Bio–
Sandra K. Johnson is the CEO, SKJ Visioneering, LLC, a technology consulting company. She is an Independent Director at Regional Management Corporation and Pan-American Life Insurance Company. Dr. Johnson is the first Black woman to earn a Ph.D. in computer engineering. Her 26-year IBM career included serving as the CTO, IBM Central, East and West Africa, and CTO, IBM Global Small and Medium Businesses. She has a background in high performance computing and is a Master Inventor with over 45 pending and issued patents and over 80 technical publications.
She has authored five books, including her memoir, Soft Power for the Journey: The Life of a STEM Trailblazer. Dr. Johnson earned B.S. (summa cum laude) and M.S. degrees in electrical engineering, from Southern University and Stanford University, respectively, and a Ph.D. in electrical and computer engineering from Rice University. She is a member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and an IEEE Fellow.
Episode 85 – Retweets and Receipts
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. André Brock
Connect on social:
@docdre
AndreBrock.academia.edu
From the Blackhand Side: Twitter as a Cultural Conversation –
LIFE ON THE WIRE: Deconstructing race on the Internet –
Distributed Blackness: African American Cybercultures –
HULU documentary –
Engineering While Black: Exploring the Experiences of Black University of Florida Undergraduate Engineering Students Using Photovoice –
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Episode Description:
This week, Kyla and Jeremy are joined by the brilliant and hilarious Dr. André Brock, Associate Professor at Georgia Tech and certified expert in all things digital culture. They dive into how Black communities—especially Black women—have shaped the online world, from memes to movements. Dr. Brock breaks down the magic of “distributed Blackness,” why African American rhetoric matters in tech, and how the internet just wouldn’t be the same without a little (okay, a lot of) Black excellence.
It’s smart, it’s funny, and it might just change the way you see your timeline. Tune in for hot takes, real talk, and maybe a few tweets worth quoting.
Bio:-::
André’s Bio–
André Brock is an associate professor in the School of Literature, Media, and Communication at Georgia Tech. He writes on Western technoculture, Black cybercultures, and digital media. His scholarship examines racial representations in social media, videogames, weblogs, and other digital media in New Media and Society, The Journal of Computer Mediated Communication, Media, Culture and Society, Information Communication and Society, and Games and Culture. He has also published influential research on digital research methods. His award-winning book, Distributed Blackness: African American Cybercultures (New York University Press, 2020) theorizes Black everyday lives as Black joy, mediated by networked digital technologies.
Episode 84 – Drawn To Greatness
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Deborah A. Anderson
Connect on social:
@blkwmnanimator
https://www.blkwmnanimator.com
Medium Article
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Episode Description:
In this episode, the multitalented, multifaceted Deborah A. Anderson, dives into the nuances of balancing roles as an academic, animator, and influencer, emphasizing the importance of representation and access to animation careers for Black and brown communities. The discussion unfolds around her creation of BlkWmnAnimator, aiming to demystify the animation industry for aspiring creatives. Deborah’s insights on the impact of technology and AI on animation underline the critical intersection of art, culture, and innovation.
Bio:-::
Deborah’s Bio–
Deborah Anderson has extensive experience in the animation industry as a 3D modeler, assistant editor, and production coordinator. She started her career at one of the premier animation studios in Seoul, South Korea at Digital eMation. While at Digital eMation, she modeled props, vehicles and backgrounds on television shows such as, Family Guy, The Cleveland Show, Batman: The Brave and The Bold, Scooby-Doo and The LeBrons. While living in New Orleans, LA she worked at TurboSquid in New Orleans, Louisiana and for Louisiana Economic Development – FastStart as an Animation Specialist. Since moving to Los Angeles, she has worked on the animated Good Times, Al Roker’s The Weather Hunters, and Amazon Prime’s Invincible. She also has a YouTube channel, BlkWmnAnimator, where she interviews animation professionals from disenfranchised communities. She recently reached a milestone of interviewing 100 Black animation professionals.
Episode 83 – Buck Bottom to Top of the Academic Ladder
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Cheryl D. Seals
Connect on social:
@cheryldseals
Google Scholar
Linked In – https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryldseals
Basic info. https://eng.auburn.edu/csse/people/ || More info. https://www.eng.auburn.edu/~sealscd/
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Episode Description:
In this inspiring episode of Modern Figures Podcast, hosts Kyla McMullen and Jeremy Waisome sit down with Dr. Cheryl D. Seals, the Charles E. Barkley Professor of Computer Science and Software Engineering at Auburn University. From her early days in Louisiana to becoming a powerhouse in user experience, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence, Dr. Seals shares the pivotal moments that shaped her path in tech.
💡 You’ll hear how Dr. Seals:
Turned curiosity into a career in cutting-edge computing research
Champions diversity and inclusion in STEM through intentional mentorship
Navigates the balance between academic excellence and personal fulfillment
Envisions the evolving landscape of STEM education for future generations
Whether you’re a student, educator, or tech professional, this episode offers powerful insights and actionable inspiration on building a meaningful career while lifting others along the way.
Bio:-::
Cheryl’s Bio–
Dr. Cheryl D. Seals, the Charles E. Barkley Professor of Computer Science and Software Engineering at Auburn University, is a dynamic and accomplished academic, researcher, and educator with a career spanning more than 25 Years. Dr. Seals is an alumnus of Grambling State University, North Carolina A&T State University and received her PhD from Virginia Tech. With respect to her research, Dr. Seals has been involved in over a dozen studies of Advanced Learning Technologies supporting improved user experience. She is practiced in methods to evaluate and illicit participatory feedback from novice and academic audiences. Our research team has garnered over $17.3M in research funding and published over 100 journals and conferences papers in eLearning, Teacher Education (online learning), Computational Linguistics, Enhancing Virtual Reality (VR) through projects in VR and Augmented Reality (AR) (i.e., Pharmacy, Building Science (VR), Civil Engineering Structures (VR), Communications disorders (VR) and (Osteopathic Medicine (AR). Dr. Seals has extensive research mentoring & supervision of over a hundred graduate, undergraduate and REU students, graduated 20 Ph.D., 78Masters students, and greater than 100 undergraduate researchers including REUs (i.e., 44).
Dr. Seals works with many programs focused on improving computer science education and broadening participation in computing at all levels and to increase the computing pipeline by cultivating students’ interest in STEM disciplines and future technology careers. Dr. Seals is as CoPI of the NSF IAAMCS Alliance that works on increasing the computing pipeline by creating opportunities for African American students to learn more about research and academic careers, through research experience and training. IAAMCS facilitates mentoring, computing research, and skill building for undergraduates and graduate students. Dr. Seals was also a CoPI of the NSF STARS Alliance (starscomputingcorps.org) a regional academic partnership with over 50 institutions, industry, K-12 and the community to strengthen local broadening of computing by focusing on K-12 outreach, community service, student leadership and computing diversity research.
Episode 82 – Research as an Act of Resistance
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Connect on social:
@jeremywaisome
@Dr_Kyla
askus@modernfigurespodcast.com
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Episode Description:
In this special mid-season episode of Modern Figures Podcast, co-hosts Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome share exciting updates on their academic research, student mentorship, and the ups and downs of securing grant funding. From guiding new students to navigating the complex world of academia, our hosts offer valuable insights for anyone in STEM.
We’re also joined by special guest Dr. Amber Johnson, who discusses our team’s latest work on several impactful projects—including a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Grant awarded by the National Science Foundation (NSF).
💡 Learn about:
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How to apply for travel grants in STEM
-
Opportunities to become a Modern Figures Influencer
-
Behind-the-scenes updates on our research and outreach efforts
✨ Bonus Content: Don’t miss a critical announcement at the end of the episode!
Whether you’re a student, educator, or early-career researcher, this episode is packed with inspiration and resources to help you thrive in STEM.
Bios:-::
Jeremy’s Bio–
Dr. Jeremy A. M. Waisome is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Engineering Education. Her research focuses on effective mentoring strategies for underrepresented populations in Engineering. She earned her Bachelor and Master of Science degrees and Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the University of Florida (UF), and now serves on the UF Ronald E. McNair Advisory Board. She is also a member of the Associate Provost’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee at UF. In 2018, she was awarded the Mike Shinn Distinguished Member of the Year (Female) by the National Society of Black Engineers. In 2017, she was inducted into the Edward A. Bouchet Graduate Honor Society. In addition, Dr. Waisome was inducted into UF Hall of Fame (2010) and is a recipient of the UF Outstanding Leadership Award (2010).
Kyla’s Bio–
Dr. Kyla McMullen is a tenured faculty member at the University of Florida’s Computer & Information Sciences & Engineering Department. Dr. McMullen has a personal commitment to encouraging women and minorities to pursue careers in computing and other STEM fields, and is the leader of the SoundPAD Laboratory at the University of Florida, which focuses on the Perception, Application, and Development of 3D audio. Her current projects include: (1) psychoacoustic analysis of the quality of customized head-related transfer functions, (2) using 3D audio to sonify positional data for situational awareness, (3) discovering critical interface design techniques for developing virtual auditory environments, and (4) using 3D audio to increase immersion and realness in virtual and augmented reality.
-::
Episode 81 – From Cracking Codes to Cracking Jokes
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Keysha E.
Connect on social:
@itskeysha.e
First stand up comedy show
Keysha E. YouTube Channel
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Episode Description:
Comedian and actress Keysha E. discusses her journey from a computer engineer with degrees in information systems and computer engineering to performing comedy in Hollywood. She explores how her technical background aids her creative process and shares her experiences navigating engineering spaces. Keysha E. also highlights her new series, “Keys to the City,” based on her life transitioning from Detroit to LA to pursue acting.
Also, chime in on AI’s impact on comedy with another segment of “What the Heck, Tech?!”
Keysha’s Bio:-::
Keysha E. is a stand up comedian and actress from Detroit, MI. After receiving her Masters Degree she moved to LA to pursue acting & then a dare from friends landed her on stage doing stand up.
Episode 80 – Authentically Here
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Chioma Aso
Connect on social:
@STEAMDivas
https://steamdivas.org/
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Episode Description:
Chioma Aso discusses her journey from Port Harcourt, Nigeria, to becoming an influential engineering manager and founder of STEAMDivas Incorporated. She shares insights on grounding, productivity, and STEM education, while challenging conventional narratives around intelligence and confidence. Discover how Chioma empowers young girls through STEM, inspiring the next generation of tech innovators.
Key Takeaways:
• Building Community: Chioma emphasizes the necessity of community and the importance of representation and support networks for women in STEM.
• Cultural Insights: Her transition from Nigeria to the U.S. revealed to her the racial dynamics and systemic challenges faced by Black women in academia and the professional sphere.
• STEAMDivas Initiative: By combining arts and STEM, Chioma’s nonprofit aims to dismantle stereotypes about what kind of careers young girls can pursue.
• Understanding Workplace Dynamics: Chioma discusses the concept of productivity personalities, advocating for recognizing individual strengths within team dynamics to enhance productivity and satisfaction.
• Empowerment through Experience: Chioma highlights how personal experiences have fueled her commitment to empowering the next generation of women in technology and engineering.
Chioma’s Bio:-::
Chioma Aso, the visionary behind STEAMDivas, has diverse expertise spanning Electrical, Software, Robotics and Test Engineering. Her transformative leadership has left an indelible mark on industries such as Space, Gaming, and Manufacturing.
Beyond her technical prowess, Chioma is a published author, offering invaluable insights into productivity personalities and team dynamics in her book, “Unlocking the Team Puzzle.” You can get more details about her books by visiting her Author’s page: https://chiomaaso.com/
As the Founder and President of STEAMDivas, Chioma masterfully melds her technical acumen with an unbridled passion for empowering women in STEM fields. Her approach of fusing hands-on engineering experiences with the expressive power of art embodies the core mission of the organization.
Learn more about STEAMDivas and join in increasing women in tech. https://steamdivas.org/
A true luminary in the world of STEM, she is reshaping industries and championing diversity and inclusion in STEM.
Episode 79 – From Wakanda to Silicon Valley
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Stephanie Van Putten
Connect on social:
IG: @svputten
https://www.svpand.co/about
Subscribe to her newsletter
State of DEI in Tech
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Episode Description:
Stephanie Van Putten, a notable leader in tech and entrepreneurship, shares her journey from PG County, Maryland, to becoming a major force in Silicon Valley. She discusses her experiences at Microsoft and MIT, founding Blendoor, and creating Visible Figures, a platform enhancing visibility for women leaders of the African diaspora. With insights into navigating tech, raising venture capital, and fostering diversity, Van Putten reflects on challenges and the importance of community and networking. Join this enlightening conversation to explore the intersection of human capital, technology, and the push for more inclusive, equitable workplaces.
Key Takeaways:
• Stephanie Van Putten’s unique blend of family influence and professional experiences shaped her successful entrepreneurial journey in the tech sector.
• Blendoor was founded to address bias in the recruitment process and was developed into an influential platform helping companies improve workplace diversity.
• Visible Figures is spearheading efforts to support and amplify the presence and success of women leaders across the African diaspora.
• Stephanie is an advocate for learning through teaching, as she lectures and shares her expertise to help bring about impactful changes in tech and entrepreneurship.
• Community and networking are vital elements of professional success, a theme evident in both Stephanie’s personal journey and her inclusive ventures.
Stephanie’s Bio:-::
Stephanie Van Putten is a serial entrepreneur, investor, lecturer (MIT, HKS, Stanford GSB), and Fortune 40 under 40 award-winning ESG innovator. She has spent her 20-year professional career as a venture-backed founder, CEO, enterprise SaaS developer, data scientist, and internationally acclaimed thought leader on AI, ESG, people analytics, and bias. Stephanie currently serves as Executive Director of Visible Figures and on the board of Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. She holds a BS in Management Science & Engineering from Stanford University and an MBA from MIT Sloan.
Episode 78 – More Degrees than a Thermometer
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Gloria Katuka
Connect on social:
IG: @asheeyah11
http://www.gloriakatuka.com/
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Episode Description:
Join hosts Kyla and Jeremy as they welcome Dr. Gloria Katuka, an applied scientist at Microsoft from Zaria, Nigeria. Gloria shares her remarkable journey through academia, achieving four degrees in eight years, including a PhD in computer science. Discover her experience transitioning from Nigeria to the U.S., her passion for computer science education, and her impactful work in developing AI services. Gain insights into her unique career path, the challenges she overcame, and her current role at Microsoft, crafting AI solutions for customers.
Key Takeaways:
- Dr. Gloria Katuka’s journey from a private school in Nigeria to applied scientist at Microsoft reflects resilience and dedication.
• Overcoming gender and cultural barriers, Gloria secured four degrees in eight years, demonstrating academic excellence.
• Her current work at Microsoft involves innovating in speech-related AI services on the Azure platform.
• Gloria emphasizes the importance of community and mentorship in achieving professional and personal goals.
• Transitioning to a professional environment, Gloria finds balance and fulfillment through work that bridges AI technology and customer needs.
Gloria’s Bio:-::
Dr. Gloria Katuka is an Applied Scientist at Microsoft, where she develops and evaluates speech-related AI services on Azure AI platforms. She earned her Ph.D. in Computer Science from the University of Florida (UF), where she conducted research on collaborative dialogue analysis, focusing on natural language understanding. She investigated approaches to improve dialogue act classification using state-of-the-art language models. She also holds an M.Sc. in Computer Science, an M.Sc. in Information Systems and Operations Management, and B.Sc. in Information Systems, all from UF. She is very passionate about broadening representation in the STEM, CS and AI careers. Prior to completing her Ph.D., she contributed to several CS/AI education projects, designing and developing engaging and collaborative learning experiences for youths in both formal and informal settings. She also had the opportunity to intern at Symantec (now NortonLifeLock), Intel, Coursera, and Microsoft. In her free time, She enjoys sci-fi, action, and comedy TV shows and books, including The Expanse, Reacher, and Abbott Elementary. She also loves watching basketball, football, and soccer.
Episode 77 – Get A Big Dog
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Valerie Taylor
Connect on social:
@drkyla
@jeremywaisome
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Episode Description:
Dive into an insightful conversation with Dr. Valerie Taylor, Director of Argonne National Labs’ Mathematics and Computer Science Division. Exploring her journey from a tech-infused childhood in Chicago to pioneering roles in academia and founding the organization, CMD-IT. Dr. Taylor shares personal stories about mentorship, navigating academia as a minority, and shaping the future of computing through inclusivity and research. Get a glimpse into significant milestones in industry and academia, accentuated by her leadership in the Richard Tapia Celebration of Diversity in Computing Conference.
Key Takeaways:
- Dr. Valerie Taylor’s upbringing in an engineering-focused family in Chicago shaped her early passion for STEM, leading her to Purdue University and UC Berkeley.
- She successfully navigated through academia’s challenges, eventually finding a niche in both teaching and groundbreaking research.
- Dr. Taylor sheds light on her leadership role at Argonne National Labs, highlighting advanced computational research and national priorities in energy and security.
- Command it, under Dr. Taylor’s leadership, focuses on promoting inclusivity and diversity within the tech industry through strategic programs like the Tapia Conference.
- The episode underscores the importance of mentorship, the impact of community support, and fostering a culture of inclusiveness in STEM fields.
Valerie’s Bio:-::
Dr. Valerie Taylor is the Director of the Mathematics and Computer Science Division at Argonne National Laboratory. Before joining Argonne, she was Senior Associate Dean of Academic Affairs in the College of Engineering and a Regents Professor and the Royce E. Wisenbaker Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at Texas A&M University.
In 2003, she joined Texas A&M University as the Department Head of CSE, where she remained in that position until 2011. Prior to joining Texas A&M, Dr. Taylor was a member of the faculty in the EECS Department at Northwestern University for eleven years. Her research is in the area of high performance computing, with a focus on performance analysis and modeling of parallel, scientific applications. She is also the Executive Director of the Center for Minorities and People with Disabilities in IT (CMD-IT).
Dr. Taylor is an IEEE Fellow, ACM Fellow, and has received numerous awards for distinguished research and leadership, including the 2001 IEEE Harriet B. Rigas Award for a woman with significant contributions in engineering education, the 2002 Outstanding Young Engineering Alumni from the University of California at Berkeley, the 2002 CRA Nico Habermann Award for increasing the diversity in computing, and the 2005 Tapia Achievement Award for Scientific Scholarship, Civic Science, and Diversifying Computing.
Dr. Taylor earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in electrical engineering from Purdue University in 1985 and 1986, respectively, and a Ph.D. in electrical engineering and computer science from the University of California at Berkeley in 1991.
Episode 76 – Building Community through Chaos
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Connect on social:
@Dr_Kyla
@jeremywaisome
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Episode Description:
Ready for a journey that will inspire and empower? Join Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome as they take you behind the scenes of their game-changing podcast and nonprofit, Modern Figures Inc., dedicated to advancing diversity in STEM. In this episode, they reveal the powerful story behind the podcast’s creation, emphasizing the crucial role of community, education, and safe spaces for underrepresented minorities in computing.
Hear how their transition to a nonprofit is creating a ripple effect, fostering mentorship, networking, and transformative opportunities for people of color in STEM. With fresh funding from the National Science Foundation and CRA UR2PhD, Modern Figures Inc. is set to roll out exciting new initiatives—including seminars, research projects, and high-impact events like the Microsoft roundtable in Atlanta—all designed to propel diversity and inclusion forward.
This isn’t just a conversation—it’s a call to action. Tune in for the premiere episode of Season 6!
Key Takeaways:
- Podcast Transformation to Nonprofit: Transitioning Modern Figures Podcast to a nonprofit organization has significantly enhanced their ability to support and engage with their audience through independent initiatives and strategic collaboration.
- Community and Academic Support: Grant funding from NSF and CRA UR2PhD is pivotal in bolstering research efforts and supporting gender-marginalized groups aiming for a PhD in STEM fields.
- Engagement with Broader Initiatives: Participation in conferences such as NSBE, Black Compute Her, and the Tapia Conference highlights their continued commitment to fostering engagement and support within the STEM community.
- Themes from Podcast Analysis: Themes such as educational exposure, childhood development, hindrances, mentorship, and intrinsic motivation reflect the core narratives shared in their podcast, offering valuable insight into the experiences of Black women in computing.
- Intriguing Technological Discussions: “What the Heck Tech” segment underscores provocative technological implementations, like the ChatGPT usage by the US Government, poised to stir vibrant discussions among listeners.
Bios:-::
Jeremy’s Bio–
Dr. Jeremy A. M. Waisome is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Engineering Education. Her research focuses on effective mentoring strategies for underrepresented populations in Engineering. She earned her Bachelor and Master of Science degrees and Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the University of Florida (UF), and now serves on the UF Ronald E. McNair Advisory Board. She is also a member of the Associate Provost’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee at UF. In 2018, she was awarded the Mike Shinn Distinguished Member of the Year (Female) by the National Society of Black Engineers. In 2017, she was inducted into the Edward A. Bouchet Graduate Honor Society. In addition, Dr. Waisome was inducted into UF Hall of Fame (2010) and is a recipient of the UF Outstanding Leadership Award (2010).
Kyla’s Bio–
Dr. Kyla McMullen is a tenured faculty member at the University of Florida’s Computer & Information Sciences & Engineering Department. Dr. McMullen has a personal commitment to encouraging women and minorities to pursue careers in computing and other STEM fields, and is the leader of the SoundPAD Laboratory at the University of Florida, which focuses on the Perception, Application, and Development of 3D audio. Her current projects include: (1) psychoacoustic analysis of the quality of customized head-related transfer functions, (2) using 3D audio to sonify positional data for situational awareness, (3) discovering critical interface design techniques for developing virtual auditory environments, and (4) using 3D audio to increase immersion and realness in virtual and augmented reality.
Episode 75 – Dynamic Duo
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guests: Jennifer Otiano, Kowe Kadoma
Kowe’s coursera course – https://www.coursera.org/learn/algorithmic-fairness
Jennifer’s website: https://jenniferotiono.wordpress.com/
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/__kkado
https://twitter.com/jihoema
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Episode Description:
In this insightful episode, listeners are introduced to the fascinating journeys of Jennifer Otiano and Kowe Kadoma, two emerging scholars in the field of Information Science. Their stories unravel against the backdrop of their shared passion for human-centered technology and their individual quests for understanding its socio-cultural implications. Diving deep into the heart of computing research, Jennifer and Kowe discuss their academic pursuits and personal growth, painting a vivid picture of resilience and innovation in a field that constantly evolves.
Key Takeaways:
- The academic journey is often non-linear, with shifting interests leading to new opportunities.
- Both qualitative and quantitative research methods hold value, despite perceived hierarchies in academia.
- Transferable skills acquired during a PhD are crucial for career flexibility.
- Staying true to oneself and avoiding comparisons is key to PhD success.
- The intersection of art and technology provides unique opportunities for exploration and impact.
Bios:-::
Jennifer Otiono (she/they) is a Ph.D. student in Information Science broadly interested in Human-AI Interaction (content creators perception of AI) through a mixed-methods approach. She is a member of the Citizen’s and Technology (CAT)🐾 Lab, where she is advised by J. Nathan Matias.
Prior to Cornell, she received an undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences from Wellesley College. Her work has been supported by the National GEM Consortium and the Mellon Foundation.
Kowe Kadoma is a PhD student in Information Science focusing on Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and AI Ethics. She uses mixed-methods to understand how AI practitioners incorporate ethical principles into their work and develop evaluation frameworks and design interventions to create equitable experiences for users of language technologies. Prior to Cornell, she received an undergraduate degree in Computer Engineering from Florida A&M University. Her work is supported by a GEM Fellowship and DLI Fellowship.
Episode 74 – The Oprah of Tech
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Linda Calvin
https://www.transcendent-talks.com/
Twitter:
twitter.com/lcalvin65
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Episode Description:
In this episode, Linda Calvin, the Chief Impact Officer for Reboot Representation, shares her experiences growing up as the only Black woman in her family, church, and school. She discusses the challenges she faced and how she used her love for writing and creativity to navigate those situations. Linda also talks about her journey in the IT sector, her decision to go back to school as a non-traditional student, and her transition to law school. She emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and the value of understanding coding as a foundation for leadership in the tech industry.
Key Takeaways:
- Linda Calvin’s upbringing as the only Black woman in her family, church, and school shaped her perspective and resilience.
- She discovered her passion for writing and creativity at a young age, which led her to pursue a degree in journalism.
- Linda’s career in the IT sector started with a job in computer technology, where she learned various programming languages and gained experience in web development.
- She emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and taking advantage of opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Linda’s transition to law school and her role as a civil prosecutor allowed her to combine her tech background with legal expertise.
Linda’s Bio:-::
Linda Calvin is the Chief Impact Officer for Reboot Representation where she collaborates with Reboot Tech Coalition partners to create and support cultures that retain, attract and advance Black, Latina and Native American (BLNA) women in tech. Before joining Reboot Representation, Linda was the IT Sector Vice President for the School of IT at Ivy Tech Community College.
Linda is a 20+ year veteran of the private IT sector where she has led global teams to implement digital and mobile application strategy, data privacy and social media policy. In these roles, she has demonstrated her expertise in communication, law, and global tech leadership. Linda, a first-generation college graduate, graduated in 2001, cum laude from Butler University earning her bachelor’s in journalism. In 2008, she earned her Juris Doctor from Indiana University School of Law. In 2016, Linda earned a scrum master certification.
Linda has served on several Indiana nonprofit boards, including the Indiana Youth Group (IYG), an organization serving the needs of LGBTQ youth, and Child Advocates. She current serves as a Board Member and the Executive Women’s Forum Director for Women & Hi Tech, the largest female in STEM organization in Indiana. She is also serves as a member of the Digital Fluency Advisory Council for Franklin College, the Six Sigma Racial Equity Institute of Indianapolis, the United Way of Central Indiana Technology Committee, Rooted School Indianapolis, a public charter technology high school which seeks to lay the groundwork for closing the financial wealth gap for black students, with a focus on technology. Linda regularly speaks on panels about tech equity, the tech talent gap and mapping passion to tech.
Episode 73 – Ctrl+Alt+Empower
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Robin Brewer
robinbrewer.com
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/_rnbrewer
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Episode Description:
Dr. Robin Brewer, an assistant professor at the University of Michigan, shares her journey in computer science and human-computer interaction. She discusses her research experiences, including internships at Facebook and Microsoft Research, where she focused on designing technologies for older adults. Dr. Brewer inspires the next generation of researchers and challenges preconceptions about Black women in computing. Her current work centers around designing technologies for older adults and people with disabilities, including voice and AI technologies. She also emphasizes the importance of getting research outside of academia and into the real world.
Key Takeaways:
- Dr. Robin Brewer’s interest in computing started in middle school and was further developed through her experiences in a science and tech high school.
- She initially wanted to be a teacher but shifted her focus to art and design before ultimately deciding to pursue a career in research and academia.
- Dr. Brewer emphasizes the importance of finding the right fit in graduate programs and being willing to switch institutions if necessary.
- She highlights the value of internships during graduate studies, which allowed her to gain practical experience and collaborate with industry professionals.
- Dr. Brewer’s research focuses on human-computer interaction and aging, with a particular interest in designing technologies for older adults.
Robin’s Bio:-::
Dr. Robin Brewer is an Assistant Professor at the University of Michigan, School of Information.
Episode 72 – Start Where You Are
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Valamere Mikler
www.sherantech.org www.cyberpsychcode.com
Twitter:
@worktechconnect
Dissertation: Career Motivation in Millennials and Generation Z as Predictors of Turnover Intention and Organizational Commitment
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Episode Description:
Dr. Valamere Mikler, an advocate for equitable spaces in DEI, shares her journey from criminal justice to industrial organizational psychology. She discusses her work with Girls Who Code and her initiative, SheRanTech, which educates and empowers girls and women on internet safety and securing STEM careers. Dr. Mikler also explores the motivations of millennials and Gen Z in the workforce and the importance of technology in advocating for women in tech.
Key Takeaways:
- Dr. Mikler’s non-traditional path into technology highlights the importance of exposure and access to tech programs for young girls, especially those from underrepresented communities.
- The motivations of millennials and Gen Z in the workforce differ from previous generations, with a focus on personal fulfillment, social change, and entrepreneurship.
- Organizational psychology plays a crucial role in understanding and improving employee engagement, retention, and overall workplace culture.
- The online environment presents unique challenges for women, including increased harassment and vulnerability to oversharing personal information.
- Building equitable spaces in technology requires intentional efforts to address diversity, equity, and inclusion, and to provide opportunities for underrepresented groups.
Valamere’s Bio:-::
Valamere Mikler (she/her) holds a PhD in industrial organizational psychology, a specialization in organizational diversity / social change, and teaches college-level courses in the social sciences, business, and general education. She is the founder of She Ran Tech, Inc, a digital privacy and technology education initiative, educating and empowering girls and women on internet safety and securing STEM careers, especially for those who identify as a person of color. Dr. Mikler is no stranger to being a change agent. Her work has been developed through social sciences research, advocacy/volunteerism, creating activist digital toolkits, calls to action, and curating resources. Over the past few years, she has been participating in social and civic engagement initiatives. With these opportunities, she has applied equitable solutions that advances racial, economic, gender, climate change, and social justice. Also, she serves as the principal investigator for the CyberPsych and Code Research Project, where the mission is to recruit minority women students into cyberpsychology programs and increase representation in STEM. When she is not advocating for equitable spaces, you will find her working on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging committees, enjoying family and friends, outdoor activities, or trying out the newest bakery, café, and Boba tea shops.
Episode 71 – Welcome to the Mushroom Queendom
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Shana T. Bryant
Twitter:
@mushrooQueendom @terribleallies
http://shanatbryant.com/ theMushroomQueendom.com
terribleallies.com
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Episode Description:
In this episode of Modern Figure’s podcast, Dr. Jeremy Waisome and Dr. Kyla McMullen interview Shana T. Bryant, an executive producer at Oculus Game Publishing. Shana shares her journey in the gaming industry, from her early passion for video games to her diverse roles in companies like EA and Microsoft. She discusses the importance of communication and teamwork in game development and challenges the notion of the “gamer” identity. Shana also delves into the lack of diversity in the industry and the slow progress being made. Join the conversation and be inspired by Shana’s insights and experiences in the world of gaming.
Key Takeaways:
- Shana T. Bryant’s passion for video games started at a young age, and she always knew she wanted to make video games, despite her mother’s initial skepticism.
- The gaming industry is a collaborative field that requires various disciplines, including artists, engineers, designers, and testers, to work together to create a game.
- Soft skills, such as communication and teamwork, are crucial in the gaming industry and can greatly impact a person’s career growth. • QA testing plays a vital role in game development, ensuring that games meet the standards set by major platforms and providing valuable feedback to improve the user experience.
- Shana highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in the gaming industry, advocating for representation and equal opportunities for underrepresented groups.
Shana’s Bio:-::
Producer and 21-year industry veteran, Shana T. Bryant has had a hand in crafting some of your favorite videogames (and might’ve even canceled a few!). From Devil May Crys and Resident Evils to Outer Worlds and even HoloLens, Shana has produced and developed profound experiences, spanning generations of platforms, genres, and media. Shana is a published author and avid comic artist, expounding ideas with a spoonful of charm and a touch of snark. Her literary contributions include Game Devs & Others: Tales from the Margins (2018, edited by Tanya DePass) and Women in Games: 100 Professionals of Play (2018, edited by Meagan Marie). She won’t stop talking about inclusivity in design, and she mentors on career management for underrepresented professionals. Shana is a steering committee member of the International Game Developer Association’s Women in Games SIG and supports Black in Gaming. She is also a director on the Board of Trustees at Art Bias, a non-profit artist co-op that seeks to promote art and artists in the Bay Area.
Episode 70 – From Lagos to UX: Dr. Aishat Aloba’s Journey in Computing
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Aishat Aloba
Connect with Dr. Aloba
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Episode Description:
In this episode, Dr. Aishat Aloba joins hosts Dr. Jeremy Waisome and Dr. Kyla McMullen to discuss her journey as a Black woman in computing. Dr. Aloba shares her experiences growing up in Lagos, Nigeria, and the misconceptions about Africa. She talks about her initial interest in computer engineering and how she discovered her passion for computer science. Dr. Aloba also highlights the importance of community and the role it played in her transition to studying in the United States. She shares her experiences at the University of Mississippi and the opportunities she had to get involved in research. The episode concludes with Dr. Aloba discussing her decision to pursue a PhD and her current work in user experience research.
Key Takeaways:
- Dr. Aishat Aloba grew up in Lagos, Nigeria, and had a positive experience living in a vibrant and modern city.
- She initially wanted to pursue a career in accounting but later discovered her passion for computer science.
- Dr. Aloba’s parents, who are both engineers, influenced her decision to study computer science.
- She attended an all-girls boarding school in Nigeria, which provided a unique sense of community and lifelong friendships.
- Dr. Aloba’s experience at the University of Mississippi prepared her for graduate school and research opportunities.
Aishat’s Bio:-::
Dr. Aishat Aloba is a User Experience Researcher at Meta, where she dedicates her expertise to advancing product equity and responsible AI development. In her role, she focuses on making sure that products are built to meet the needs and motivations of diverse user populations, especially those from historically underserved communities. She received her PhD in Human-Centered Computing from the University of Florida, where she pioneered research on tailoring motion recognition algorithms to children’s motion qualities and has published in top HCI conferences. She received her M.Sc and B.Sc in Computer Science from the University of Florida and University of Mississippi respectively.
Episode 69 – Hey Shaniqua! What’s the weather?
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Gloria Washington
Visit her site
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Episode Description:
In this episode of Modern Figures, Dr. Gloria Washington shares her inspiring journey in computing, from the struggles she overcame to her passion for uplifting Black women in the field. The podcast delves into Dr. Washington’s experiences in academia, industry, and now as a professor, where she passionately works to elevate the voices and opportunities for those following in her footsteps. Dr. Washington recounts the profound influence of her mother’s encouragement and how the unexpected challenges she faced, including financial decisions and personal losses, honed her determination to succeed.
Key Takeaways:
- Dr. Gloria Washington’s journey in computing was significantly influenced by personal resilience and the encouragement from her mother.
- Transitioning from industry to academia allowed Dr. Washington to focus on mentoring and inspiring the next generation of Black women in computing.
- Her work at Howard University has contributed to increasing the representation and success of Black students in STEM fields.
- The “Watch Me Code” program aims to engage young Black men in computer science and entrepreneurship, changing perceptions and opportunities within their community.
- Dr. Washington’s research on improving voice assistant technology aims to address biases against Black voices, advocating for more inclusive tech advancements.
Gloria’s Bio:-::
Gloria Washington is an Assistant Professor at Howard University in Computer Science. At Howard, she runs the Affective Biometrics Lab and performs research on affective computing, computer science education, and biometrics. Currently, she is leading research that explores the role of affect/emotion and imposter syndrome on performance in computer science courses. Additionally, she is exploring the link between technology, mental health, and Black women’s hair texture. Finally, she also works closely with clinicians within the Howard University Hospital to develop technologies for improving the lives of children and teenagers with Sickle Cell Disease through creation of tools for keeping track of their pain and encouraging them in moments of depression. The ABL is currently funded by the National Science Foundation, National Security Agency, Northrop Grumman, Dell, and Microsoft. Before coming to Howard, she was an Intelligence Community Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Department of Computing Science at Clemson University. She performed research on identifying individuals based solely from pictures of their ears. Dr. Washington has more than fifteen years in Government service and has presented on her research throughout industry. Ms. Washington holds M.S. and Ph.D. in Computer Science from The George Washington University, and a B.S. in Computer Information Systems from Lincoln University of Missouri.
Episode 68 – Tech, Law, and Media Magic
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Jasmine McNealy
https://jasminemcnealy.com
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Episode Description:
In this engaging episode of the Modern Figures podcast, hosts Dr. Jeremy Waisome and Dr. Kyla McMullen welcome the multifaceted Dr. Jasmine McNealy. The conversation takes an inspiring dive into the world of journalism, law, and public interest technology. As a proponent for critical thinking and policy influence, Dr. McNealy shares her unique trajectory and the importance of her work concerning current and emerging tech issues.
The episode kicks off with Dr. McNealy’s reflections on her educational path and early interests, which evolved from a fascination with architecture and art to a purposeful career in journalism and law. Dr. McNealy shares insightful experiences from her involvement in pre-college programs, emphasizing the influence these early exposures had on her career choices. The conversation navigates through critical topics in AI, privacy, and policy, highlighting Dr. McNealy’s significant work and her perspective on the intersection of media, technology, and social determinants such as geography.
Key Takeaways:
- Jasmine McNealy’s journey reflects a multifaceted career spanning journalism, law, technology, and social sciences with a focus on media and technology’s influence on law and policy.
- Recognizing the importance of extracurricular programs, Dr. McNealy encourages engaging with communities outside academia to gain a balanced perspective and reduce stress.
- Emphasizing the urgent need for an omnibus federal data protection or privacy law in the U.S., Dr. McNealy spotlights the lack of nationwide uniformity in dealing with artificial intelligence and associated technologies.
- The episode calls attention to the digital divide, particularly in rural areas, where geography dramatically impacts access to technology and should be a focal point in AI and policy discussions.
- McNealy encourages a broad range of academic and professional backgrounds as pathways into careers focused on emerging media, technology, and policy.
Jasmine’s Bio:-::
Jasmine McNealy is an attorney, critical public interest technologist, and social scientist who studies emerging media & technology with a view toward influencing law and policy. Her research emphasizes technological ecosystems, privacy, surveillance, and data governance. She is a Senior Fellow in Tech Policy with the Mozilla Foundation, associate professor at the University of Florida, and a Faculty Associate at the Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University. Jasmine is also the founder and principal of The Alveary LLC.
Episode 67 – Dr. Angelique Taylor’s Tech Odyssey
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Angelique Taylor
https://www.angeliquemtaylor.com/
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Episode Description:
In this enlightening episode of the Modern Figures Podcast, co-hosts Dr. Jeremy Waisome and Dr. Kyla McMullen engage in a rich conversation with Dr. Angelique Taylor, a shining example of Black women’s excellence in computing. Dr. Taylor’s inspiring journey, from her early fascination with technologies to spearheading research in AI and healthcare robotics, offers listeners profound insights into the world of cutting-edge technological innovation.
Dr. Taylor shares her path from community college to a thriving career in academia, providing an intimate look at her personal and professional growth. Her narrative is filled with pivotal moments, from the stark transition to predominantly white institutions to the cultural adaptations required while ascending her academic career. The episode encapsulates Dr. Taylor’s tenacity, highlighting her pursuit of impactful research and the significance of building strong communities, particularly amongst Black women in computing.
Key Takeaways:
• Dr. Angelique Taylor’s educational journey from community college to a PhD in computer science demonstrates the importance of resilience and passion for one’s interests.
• Building community is essential in academic success, as Dr. Taylor navigated cultural shifts and created supportive networks throughout her career.
• The impact of one’s work and its real-world applications can profoundly shape research direction, as seen in Dr. Taylor’s transition to healthcare robotics.
• Research collaboration with healthcare professionals reveals the practical and life-saving potential of integrating robotics into medical settings.
• Mentorship and setting clear expectations are vital in recruiting and guiding students as an academic advisor, a new role Dr. Taylor has embraced.
Angelique’s Bio:-::
Angelique Taylor is an Assistant Professor in the Information Science Department at Cornell Tech and Director of the Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Lab (AIRLab) focusing on research at the intersection of robotics, computer vision, and artificial intelligence. The AIRLab designs robots and augmented reality systems that sense and model groups of people in real-world, safety-critical environments and develops machine learning algorithms to support team collaboration. Before joining Cornell, Angelique was a Visiting Research Scientist at Meta Reality Labs Research working on AI to support multi-user collaboration in AR/VR. She received her Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering from the University of California San Diego in 2021. She has received the Google Award for Inclusion Research, NSF GRFP, Microsoft Dissertation Award, the Google Anita Borg Memorial Fellowship, the Arthur J. Schmitt Presidential Fellowship, a GEM Fellowship, and an award from the National Center for Women in Information Technology (NCWIT). More information on her research can be found at angeliquemtaylor.com.
Episode 66 – “Go Tell that Man You want to go to Grad school”
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Jessica N. Jones
Twitter:
.@drjessicanjones
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Episode Description:
In this episode, Jessica shares her experience of starting the “CodeIT Day” program at Clemson University, which aimed to introduce middle school students to computer science. She discusses the importance of representation in the field and the impact of culturally relevant pedagogy. The conversation also touches on the transition to the University of Florida and the shift in lab dynamics. Plus, there’s a hilarious discussion about “Wizgate” with a surprise guest from a previous Modern Figures episode. Join in as they reminisce about their time in the lab and the unique culture they created.
Key Takeaways:
- Community and Culture in Academia: The importance of maintaining a supportive and inclusive lab culture during the transition from Clemson University to the University of Florida.
- Educational Technology: The significance of initiatives like CodeIT day in introducing young students to computer science using fun, interactive methods.
- Culturally Relevant Pedagogy: Insight into Jessica’s research focused on improving reading fluency among African American second graders by integrating cultural elements.
- Graduate School Challenges: Discussion around the trials of research that relies on the participation of young students, highlighting the unpredictable nature of working with children.
- Lab Days Reality Show: A reflection on the unique experience of being part of a lab that was the focus of a reality show, showcasing the day-to-day life of graduate students.
• Code IT Day: https://www.codeitday.com/
Lab Daze: https://hxr.cise.ufl.edu/LabDaze
Jessica’s Bio:-::
Dr. Jessica N. Jones, of Richmond Virginia is currently a Human-Systems Research Scientist for the US Navy.
Dr. Jones holds three post-secondary degrees. She is a 2011 graduate of Hampton University where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and a minor in Leadership Studies. Next, Dr. Jones graduated from Clemson University in 2014 with a Master of Science in Computer Science with a concentration in Interactive Computing. Finally, in 2018 Dr. Jones earned a Ph.D. in Human-Centered Computing from the University of Florida where her research included usable voting systems, interactive tutoring systems, culturally relevant learning, and broadening participation in STEM. Dr. Jones is the creator of CodeIT Day, a program that introduced middle school students to Computer Science via robotics while providing examples of diversity in Computing through the program’s volunteer staff.
Dr. Jones is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® and currently serves as the technology chair for her chapter.
Episode 65 – Season 5 Opener
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Twitter:
.@Dr_Kyla
.@jeremywaisome
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Episode Description:
Get ready ‘cause we’re kicking off Season 5 with 2 very special guests – hosts of the Modern Figures podcast – Dr. Jeremy Waisome and Dr. Kyla McMullen! Listen as they spill the beans on their quest to conquer the world of research – and they’re tackling it with a consortium focused on Black women and girls in computing. They even dish about wrestling with AI language models like Chat GPT and the wild world of ethical considerations. They’re tackling the resignation of Harvard’s prez, Dr. Claudine Gay, and the unique hurdles faced by Black academic leaders. Join the conversation on the work we’re doing and what we have next in the pipeline! #ModernFiguresPodcast
Key Takeaways:
The hosts aim to create a research consortium focused on black women and girls in computing to foster collaboration and avoid duplication of research efforts.
They emphasize the importance of compensating Black and brown scholars for their labor and expertise.
The hosts discuss the challenges and ethical considerations of using AI language models like Chat GPT in academic settings.
They highlight the unique challenges faced by Black academic leaders, using the example of Dr. Claudine Gay’s resignation from Harvard.
The hosts encourage listeners to focus on doing their job well and finding fulfillment outside of work, rather than solely relying on their job for passion and fulfillment.
Jeremy’s Bio–
Dr. Jeremy A. M. Waisome is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Engineering Education. Her research focuses on effective mentoring strategies for underrepresented populations in Engineering. She earned her Bachelor and Master of Science degrees and Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the University of Florida (UF), and now serves on the UF Ronald E. McNair Advisory Board. She is also a member of the Associate Provost’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee at UF. In 2018, she was awarded the Mike Shinn Distinguished Member of the Year (Female) by the National Society of Black Engineers. In 2017, she was inducted into the Edward A. Bouchet Graduate Honor Society. In addition, Dr. Waisome was inducted into UF Hall of Fame (2010) and is a recipient of the UF Outstanding Leadership Award (2010).
Kyla’s Bio– –
Dr. Kyla McMullen is a tenured faculty member at the University of Florida’s Computer & Information Sciences & Engineering Department. Dr. McMullen has a personal commitment to encouraging women and minorities to pursue careers in computing and other STEM fields, and is the leader of the SoundPAD Laboratory at the University of Florida, which focuses on the Perception, Application, and Development of 3D audio. Her current projects include: (1) psychoacoustic analysis of the quality of customized head-related transfer functions, (2) using 3D audio to sonify positional data for situational awareness, (3) discovering critical interface design techniques for developing virtual auditory environments, and (4) using 3D audio to increase immersion and realness in virtual and augmented reality.
Bonus Episode 64 – NCWIT Color of Our Future
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Twitter:
.@Dr_Kyla
.@jeremywaisome
Episode Description:
We were honored to be featured guests of the first Color of Our Future webinar of NCWIT’s Conversation for Change series.
Listen to our discussion, led by Dr. JeffriAnne Wilder, as we share how we met, who our dream podcast guests are and why all roads lead back to Dr. Juan E. Gilbert.
The National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) leverages the skills and experiences of professionals with diverse backgrounds to further the mission and make sustainable change. NCWIT is an avid supporter and a sponsor of the Modern Figures Podcast.
Jeremy’s Bio–
Dr. Jeremy A. M. Waisome is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Engineering Education. Her research focuses on effective mentoring strategies for underrepresented populations in Engineering. She earned her Bachelor and Master of Science degrees and Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the University of Florida (UF), and now serves on the UF Ronald E. McNair Advisory Board. She is also a member of the Associate Provost’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee at UF. In 2018, she was awarded the Mike Shinn Distinguished Member of the Year (Female) by the National Society of Black Engineers. In 2017, she was inducted into the Edward A. Bouchet Graduate Honor Society. In addition, Dr. Waisome was inducted into UF Hall of Fame (2010) and is a recipient of the UF Outstanding Leadership Award (2010).
Kyla’s Bio– –
Dr. Kyla McMullen is a tenured faculty member at the University of Florida’s Computer & Information Sciences & Engineering Department. Dr. McMullen has a personal commitment to encouraging women and minorities to pursue careers in computing and other STEM fields, and is the leader of the SoundPAD Laboratory at the University of Florida, which focuses on the Perception, Application, and Development of 3D audio. Her current projects include: (1) psychoacoustic analysis of the quality of customized head-related transfer functions, (2) using 3D audio to sonify positional data for situational awareness, (3) discovering critical interface design techniques for developing virtual auditory environments, and (4) using 3D audio to increase immersion and realness in virtual and augmented reality.
Episode 63 – Everything is by Design
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guests: Dr. Christina Harrington
Twitter:
.@adapperprof
https://www.christinaharrington.me/
Episode Description:
Welcome Dr. Christina Carrington, an Assistant Professor of Human-Computer Interaction in the School of Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon University who works at the intersection of interaction design and health and racial equity. Listen as she shares her journey from her mom driving her three hours to participate in NSBE to her focus on the development of products to support older adults, individuals with differing abilities, and historically excluded groups.
Christina’s Bio–
Christina Harrington (she/her) is an Assistant Professor of Human-Computer Interaction in the School of Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon University. She holds a courtesy appointment in the School of Design. Christina has several years of experience as a designer and qualitative researcher who works at the intersection of interaction design and health and racial equity. She has worked as a design researcher and UX designer at various companies such as Apple, Lenovo, and Motorola and her research has been published at various venues focused on HCI and design.
Her research combines her background in industrial design, interactive systems and human factors psychology to focus on areas of universal, accessible, and inclusive design. Specifically, she looks at how to use design in the development of products to support older adults, individuals with differing abilities, and historically excluded groups such as Black and LatinX communities in maintaining their health, wellness, and autonomy in defining technological futures. Christina is passionate about using design to center communities that have historically been at the margins of mainstream design. She looks to methods such as design justice and community collectivism to broaden and amplify participation in design by addressing the barriers that corporate approaches to design have placed on our ability to see design as a universal language of communication and knowledge. Dr. Harrington is also the Director of the Equity and Health Innovations Design Research Lab.
Episode 62 – Take the Shot: Hacking CS with Sports
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guests: Sanethia Thomas PhD
Twitter:
.@sanethiathomas
Episode Description:
Let us introduce you to our wonderful guest, Dr. Sanethia Thomas. Dr. Thomas currently serves as Assistant Instructional Professor at University of Florida. However, she will attest to being a lifelong student, multi-talented and multi-passionate. Listen to her inspiring story on why she decided to combine sports and tech to launch her own company and nonprofit organization and why you’re never too old to do something different.
Sanethia’s Bio–
Dr. Sanethia Thomas in an Assistant Instructional Teaching Professor at the University of Florida. She received her Ph.D. from the University of Florida in Computer & Information Science & Engineering, specifically Human Centered Computing with a certificate in Athlete Development She is a National Science Foundation Fellow and GEM Fellow. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Information Technology from the University of Texas El-Paso and a Master’s of Science in Youth Development Leadership from Clemson University.
Dr. Thomas played on the USA International Women’s Basketball team where she toured in Belgium and Amsterdam. She combined her tech skills and her athletic experiences to start her own company, Second-Shot and non-profit organization, Athletes Succeed in Sport and Life. She has published her work in several journals, conferences, and magazines and received notable awards such as being recognized by Yale University’s Edward Bouchet Honors Society, Phi Kappa Phi Honors Society, National Center for Women & Information Technology, and National Academy of Inventors.
As a first generation graduate and third African- American woman to graduate from UF in her field, she is chartering research in computer science and athlete development. She sends a strong message of the importance of education and success regardless of gender and race.
www.sanethiathomas.com
mysecondshot.com
Episode 61 – Changing the Complexion of Tech
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guests: Shameeka Emanuel and Dr. Corey Baker
Twitter:
.@STEMisMe
.@DrCoreyBaker
Interested in Racial Literacy Training? – https://www.yolandasealeyruiz.com/
Culturally Responsive Teaching & The Brain – Zaretta Hammond – https://crtandthebrain.com/about/
Episode Description:
We welcome another special guest Shameeka Emanuel (and bonus guest Dr. Corey Baker) for a fun conversation among friends and colleagues. Shameeka used her personal mission statement to guide her career trajectory. The result? Numerous positions focused on holding space and pushing boundaries.Shameeka’s Bio–
Shameeka Emanuel is currently a Diversity STEM Strategist at Google tasked with reconsidering the relationship between industry and education to expand capacity in computing education. She is focused primarily on Google’s Code Next program. Prior to joining Google, Shameeka was a Senior Product Manager for the Amazon Future Engineer team launching products aimed to increase exposure to Computer Science education in the K-12 space while promoting Diversity and Inclusion in tech. Prior to joining Amazon, Shameeka worked at Intel Corporation where she held a variety of positions. During that time, she worked to validate four processors in the Xeon Server Family in various capacities (pre-silicon and post-silicon). Her last role at Intel was Diversity Scholar Program Manager. She also served as Co-Chair for the Birds of a Feather committee for the 2019, 2021 & 2022 ACM Richard Tapia Celebration of Diversity in Computing Conferences. She is currently a board member for Piper which is an EdTech company that aims to create cutting-edge maker experiences for students around the globe.
Corey’s Bio– Dr. Corey E. Baker is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science in the College of Engineering at the University of Kentucky (UK). He directs the Network Reconnaissance (NetRecon) Lab where his research interests are in the area of Cyber Physical Systems with emphasis in: opportunistic wireless communication for the IoT, smart cities, smart homes, and mobile health environments. Professor Baker received a B.S. degree in Computer Engineering from San Jose State University (SJSU), a M.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA), and M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Florida (UF). After completion of his graduate studies, Baker was a University of California Presidents Postdoctoral Fellow in the Electrical and Computer Engineering department at the University of California San Diego. In 2019, Dr. Baker received the UK Inclusive Excellence Award for his work in creating a graduate campus visit program and diversifying Computer Science and the College of Engineering at the doctoral level. Professor Baker has also served as the Travel Grants Chair for ACM HotMobile 2020 and on the TPC’s of numerous IEEE conferences.
Episode 60 – And God said… Let there be patents!
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Ruthie D. Lyle, PhD
Twitter:
.@rlylecannon
Episode Description:
This week’s episode features the Black woman believed to have the most issued patents in the entire world. Dr. Ruthie D. Lyle is an “emerging technology junkie” and has made her mark by being the first African American woman to earn a doctorate in Electrical Engineering from New York University’s Tandon School of Engineering to being one of the first African Americans to hold the title of IBM Master Inventor.
Listen as this multi-talented, multi-passionate leader shares what drew her to patent work and how we need to all focus on engaging youth in AI.
Ruthie’s Bio–
Dr. Ruthie D. Lyle is the first African American woman to earn a doctorate in Electrical Engineering from New York University’s Tandon School of Engineering, previously Polytechnic University. In 2021 she was graced with the privilege of being the Commencement Speaker for the Tandon School of Engineering graduating class.
Her professional career began at IBM, where she held positions in hardware and software design, intellectual property management and technical project management. While at IBM, she recognized her innovation tendencies and successfully passed the Patent Bar becoming a registered United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) Patent Agent with credentials to prosecute patent applications before the USPTO. She is one of the first African Americans to hold the title of IBM Master Inventor and lead multiple IBM Enterprise-level Patent Review Boards.
She then spent almost a decade at USAA helping to create the Strategic Emerging Technology Research Program. A program focused on understanding emerging technologies and their impact through the USAA business lens.
She has distinguished herself as an Innovation Thought Leader. She has earned over 220 issued patents; and is believed to have the most inventions for any black woman in the world. In 2021, she earned over 21 patents and was listed as an inventor on 6.8% of the total patents granted to her previous employer, USAA, during that year.
Today she is a Principal Technical Patent Architect at NVIDIA. A role that really appeals to her because it serves both her analytical side and creative sides. In just two short years, she has had the opportunity to take on projects that align with her personal mission. She jumped at the chance to lead NVIDIA’s work on diversity in inventorship effort, and works closely with the USIPA consortium members. She also was encouraged when a proposal to define and pilot a new program, Pathways to AI was supported by her manager, even though it was not strictly in her organization. Pathways to AI is a program intended to help unserved constituents women, people of color and those without access to the type of AI education that someplace like Stanford could afford. Her thought was not to reach outside but to look internally at the NVIDIA technical talent pool, and provide opportunities for current employees to gain “real-world” AI and Machine Learning project experience, to even use this as a stepping stone to change career trajectories.
Among her current interests “AI for Good” and Augmented Intelligence come to the top of the list. As a committed lifelong learner, she is passionate about the impact of technology on society. She celebrates the NVIDIA’s culture and the “One Team” philosophy.
Ruthie is a wife, a mother, and an avid supporter of education and activities that encourage women and underrepresented minorities to pursue careers in STEM fields. She also enjoys recreational running.
Episode 59 – Stepping Out and Expecting More
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Monica F. Cox
Twitter:
.@drmonicacox
Website: https://www.drmonicacox.com/
Episode Description:
From growing up seeing the Confederate flag to taking bold steps and making major moves, Dr. Monica F. Cox credits her upbringing and personality to being unapologetically herself. Listen as the Author of “Demystifying the Engineering PhD” shares her journey to not only being a steward in her field, but also helping others do the same.Monica’s Bio–Monica F. Cox, Ph.D., is a disruptor, trailblazer, change agent, and leader who believes in living an authentic life even if it makes people uncomfortable. She grew up an only child in rural southeast Alabama, where she was raised by her educator parents to persist in the face of personal and professional adversity. As a coach, she guides clients in areas of career development; business strategy; and diversity, equity, and inclusion. A Distinguished Professor and entrepreneur, Dr. Cox’s inquisitive nature contributes to her passion for educating others and sharing what she has learned via her experiences.
Episode 58 – A Community of our Own
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Lori Mitchell
Twitter:
.@bwit_all
Website: https://www.blackwomenintech.com
Episode Description:
From growing up as a “science nerd”, to a career in respiratory therapy to founding Black Women in Technology, an organization dedicated to encouraging Black Women and other women of color to pursue technology as a career. Listen as Lori Mitchell shares why she is not done yet and why we call her the true definition of levels, levels, levels.
Lori’s Bio–
Black Women in Technology was created as a Meetup group in late 2014. New to Los Angeles and a self described tech enthusiast, she attended technology events around the city. Much to her surprise she noticed most of the events were not well attended by Black Women. She asked several women of color why and found one nagging reason – they didn’t know the event was taking place. Lori began to post technology and technology-related events held in Los Angeles and surrounding areas to BWiT’s Meetup page. The postings allowed members the support of knowing someone else, like them, would be
attending. Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive and encouraging. The group now boasts more than 500 Black Women, ranging in ages from 20 to 67, dedicated to learning our past in tech and becoming the future of tech. Lori’s goal for BWiT is to provide a cohesive platform for African-American and other women to develop relationships, receive recognition, network and learn. Black Women in Technology is dedicated to encouraging women to enter and stay in technology while encouraging startups and businesses founded by women of color.
In 2015, Lori became one of two Community Leaders for the Anita Borg Institute’s dotLocal initiative. The ABI.LA (ABIdotLA) group’s launch was held at Google in October 2015. She also attended her first GHC conference last year with the ABI.Local team. Lori has also had the opportunity to judge a hackathon and present on a few panels around Los Angeles.
In October 2018, BWiT launched its first inaugural NW Summit in Seattle. The successful event was held on Microsoft’s campus and hosted over 300 women of all backgrounds on topics ranging from blockchain to self-care. The summit solidified Lori’s and BWiT’s mission to meet the needs of such an incredible community. Lori Pressley-Mitchell, BS, RRT has worked in technology since 1996. Self-taught to function as a system analyst in 1996 while a Respiratory Therapist, she eventually returned to school to complete a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Systems from Pennsylvania State University (2002). She enjoys her 3 grandchildren and is a former Director of IT Applications.
Episode 57 – All About Crypto
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Pamela Gibbs
Twitter:
.@pameladisrupts
Website: Pamelagibbs.com
Episode Description:
On this episode, we welcome back Dr. Pamela Gibbs to the Modern Figures Podcast as a rare repeat guest (check her out on Episode 26). If you have all of the questions about crypto, Dr. Gibbs has all of the answers. Learn how being “nosey for a living” led to a career and the connection between Walmart and crypto.
Pamela’s Bio-
Dr. Pamela Gibbs wears many hats. A wife. A mom of 2 humans and a Cane Corsco. A computer scientist. A maker of good trouble. A lover of all things Beyonce. A member of Zeta Phi Beta. A researcher…and a future venture capitalist/angel investor. She lives life with the motto of shooting all shots, even in the dark with the full expectation that they will go in. Worked across multiple industries – banking (Bank of America), government (Northrop Grumman), retail/e-commerce (Walmart), big tech (Google), web3/fintech (stealth mode crypto start-up). Board Member for Anita Borg and Hosts for Humanity. B.S. International Business & Marketing, MBA from Penn State University: Doctoral of Science in Information & Interaction Design from University of Baltimore.
Episode 56 – BlackTechUnplugged Crossover Episode
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Deena McKay
Twitter:
.@deena_mckay
@blktechunplged
Episode Description:
Welcome to our crossover episode with Deena McKay, a technologist, speaker, and host of the podcast, Black Tech Unplugged. Listen to this Certified Scrum Master as she educates us on her journey to the tech field, how ashy feet made her pivot and her motivation for launching the Black Tech Unplugged podcast.
Deena’s Bio-
Deena McKay is the founder and host of the podcast, Black Tech Unplugged. Black Tech Unplugged is a podcast that highlights Blacks who innovate and work in the tech industry. Deena started Black Tech Unplugged as a way for Blacks to see people who looked like them in the tech industry. She also wanted to share tips and advice for those trying to get into the industry.
Website: www.Blacktechunplugged.com
Episode 55 – Affective and Effectiive
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Shani B. Daily
Twitter:
.@identityinCS
@shanibphd
@theathenainstitute
Episode Description:
Dr. Shani B. Daily is a Professor of practice in Electrical and Computer Engineering & Computer Science at Duke University and Levitan Faculty Fellow, Special Assistant to the Vice Provosts. Her research focuses on the design, implementation, and evaluation of technologies, programs, and curricula to support diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM fields. Dr. Daily’s work has been featured in USA Today, Forbes, National Public Radio, and the Chicago Tribune. Listen as she shares what sparked her interest in academia and what led to her ground-breaking success in removing barriers for the next generation of computer scientists.
Shani’s Bio-
Shaundra (“Shani B”) Daily is a professor of practice in Electrical and Computer Engineering & Computer Science at Duke University and Levitan Faculty Fellow, Special Assistant to the Vice Provosts. Prior to joining Duke, she was an associate professor with tenure at the University of Florida in the Department of Computer & Information Science & Engineering. She also served as an associate professor and interim co-chair in the School of Computing at Clemson University. Her research focuses on the design, implementation, and evaluation of technologies, programs, and curricula to support diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM fields. Her approach has focused on four key strategies: 1) Collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to support insights on best practices for diversity, equity, and inclusion, 2)Utilizing technology to support the development of interpersonal skills that will facilitate collaboration in diverse settings; 3) Developing technologies and programs geared towards making computing and engineering accessible to diverse identities, and 4) Mentoring, advising, and participating in outreach inside and outside of the university. Having garnered over $40M in funding from public and private sources to support her collaborative research activities, Daily’s work has been featured in USA Today, Forbes, National Public Radio, and the Chicago Tribune. Daily earned her B.S. and M.S. in Electrical Engineering from the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University – Florida State University College of Engineering, and an S.M. and Ph.D. from the MIT Media Lab.mo
Website: www.shanibphd.com
Project website: Athena.duke.edu
We continue our conversation with Deidra Morrison Wells, Ph.D. In part 2, we learn more about her experiences in academia and find out why she decided to leave.
Today, we are speaking with Deidra Morrison Wells, Ph.D. , a self-professed Lego-head, who went from having animals as classmates in high school to becoming a certified joy-pusher. Listen to Part 1 of our conversation as she shares her journey to becoming a Ph.D., to how the pandemic changed her career trajectory.
This episode is part of a series dedicated to giving the Modern Figures Podcast listeners the inside scoop of a career in academia directly from our hosts, Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen. From mapping out a career path and investing in yourself to navigating tenure politics, this series will cover it all.
In Part 4, we take a closer look at the importance of mentoring. What is a mentor? How do you get one? And then, once you have a mentor, how do you determine that they’re a good fit for you? Listen as our hosts share some of their experiences with mentoring.
Here are the links mentioned in this episode: Link to this report: Mentoring-Report.pdf https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ebd290VNde97EcS4Y6vdH5Uf2w0yJz-I/view?usp=sharing Podcast: https://www.nationalacademies.org/our-work/the-science-of-effective-mentoring-in-stemm Mentor Map: https://www.facultydiversity.org/ncfddmentormap Rackham Graduate Student Mentoring Guide [for students]: https://rackham.umich.edu/downloads/student-mentoring-handbook.pdf How to Mentor Graduate Students [for faculty]: https://rackham.umich.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Fmentor.pdf
Welcome to Season 4 of the Modern Figures Podcast! We open this season with an unscripted conversation between our esteemed co-hosts, Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen. Listen as they share what’s been going on in the world and their professional lives. Also, stay tuned to hear what’s in store this season.
As always you can find us on our website at www.modernfigurespodcast.com
You can ask us questions via email at: askus@modernfigurespodcast.com
And you can find Kyla and Jeremy on Twitter @Dr_Kyla and @JeremyWaisome
The conversation continues with Tiffanie R. Smith, Ph.D. as we celebrate reaching 50 episodes! Listen as Dr. Smith shares how she was successful in combining her love of dance with STEM along with why how her students address her is important.
We are joined by Dr. Tiffanie R. Smith, a self-professed over-achiever, who recounts her journey to PhD from making the “best decision ever made” in her entire life to being shunned by her lab mates.Her path to current success included many twists and turns. Dr. Smith excels at following her gut instincts while remaining focused on her goals.
Unlike most people, Dr. Courtney D. Cogburn knew early on that she was interested in a career in Psychology and later, Social Work. Listen as she shares how these two disciplines contribute to her current work in studying racial inequities. Learn how she is utilizing technology to reveal how racial bias impacts all aspects of our lives.
Meet friend of the podcast, Bethlehem Mesfin, a graduate student pursuing a Master of Science in Computer Science. Learn about her shift into tech and how a need for community led to co-founding Code 4 the Culture.
This episode is part of a series dedicated to giving the Modern Figures Podcast listeners the inside scoop of a career in academia directly from our hosts, Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen. From mapping out a career path and investing in yourself to navigating tenure politics, this series will cover it all.
In Part 3, we are breaking down an important aspect of academic life: the dissertation. Listen as our esteemed hosts share what it is and its importance on the path to PhD. Get ready to learn firsthand knowledge on the steps to successfully create your dissertation.
Dr. Brandeis Marshall was able to combine her two loves: math and dance. What began as rolling coins for her mom led to a career in computing which placed her on the front end of “this internet thing”. Get ready for a multitude of funny and surprising stories outlining her journey to leadership. You can continue learning from Dr. Marshall by subscribing to her Rebel Tech newsletter or following her on Medium.
At the suggestion of her middle school teacher, Dr. Makita R. Phillips began her journey of pursuing a career in mechanical engineering. She prides herself on living on faith and has had a multitude of experiences leading her around the country. Listen to this heart-warming conversation about showing up, living with intention and putting yourself first.
At the age of 14, Ihudiya Finda Williams knew 2 things: she loved to code and she wanted to be in the Peace Corps. On this episode, listen in as she shares lessons learned that led from corporate internships to Africa to Harvard.
This episode is part of a series dedicated to giving the Modern Figures Podcast listeners the inside scoop of a career in academia directly from our hosts, Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen. From mapping out a career path and investing in yourself to navigating tenure politics, this series will cover it all. Part two covers from making the decision and picking the right graduate school (for you) to identifying funding support to pay for it all. Additionally, listen as our hosts share pivotal lessons learned along their respective journeys that can help make your path smoother.
Dr. France Jackson shares her journey from being the “smart girl” in elementary school to a PhD student working within the intersection of fashion and design-centered culture. She shares why authenticity can be a competitive advantage and how curating experiences has become a lucrative career.
Dr. Carlotta Berry joins us to talk about the importance of community, utilizing available resources and reaching back as we climb the proverbial ladder. Passionate about recruitment and retention in the electrical and computer engineering fields, Dr. Berry has committed herself to being an advisor and advocate. Pull up a seat for a lesson in determination and faith.
This episode is part of a series dedicated to giving the Modern Figures Podcast listeners the inside scoop of a career in academia directly from our hosts, Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen. From mapping out a career path and investing in yourself to navigating tenure politics, this series will cover it all. Consider this your window into the inspiring, and sometimes a bit messy, life of academia.
One of our loyal listeners, Sayde King, joins us to share how the Modern Figures podcast changed her life. Sayde shares her career journey from being the IT person in high school to being a Phd student in Computer Science and Engineering. Learn how she navigates the challenges of grad school and how she became the definition of why the Modern Figures podcast exists.
Episode 37 – Black ComputeHER: Chicken Soup for the Soul
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Jamika Burge
Twitter:
.@jdburge
@blackcomputeher
Episode Description: Dr. Jamika Burge joins us for her second appearance on the Modern Figures Podcast. She talks about the origin of the BlackComputeHER conference and how it focuses on the intersection of identity while providing space for community. What began as a conference now includes a Fellows program, and the citeHER publication program. Dr. Burge shares how her organization became a thought leader in changing the conversation on Black women in tech.
Jamika’s Bio – Jamika D. Burge, PhD, is Co-Founder and President of blackcomputeHER.org, INC., a non-profit (501(c)3) an organization dedicated to supporting computational thinking, design thinking, and workforce development for Black women and girls in computing+tech. blackcomputeHER.org, INC has raised and invested over $1 million in funded to supporting Black women in computing+tech, and has partnered with prominent and influential organizations for maximum impact. Dr. Burge is an authority in research and programming that investigates the intersectionality of Black women and girls in computing, and she is also a tech founder (and principal) of Design & Technology Concepts, LLC, a tech consultancy that provides computer science education & research and inclusive design. Jamika is also an executive leader in industry, serving as Head of Enterprise Design Research at Capital One, where she leads a team of researchers who develop human insights, at scale, including for Eno, Capital One’s conversational AI. She is also the Founder of Capital One’s Intersectional Symposium, which centers intersectionality as fundamental to exploring the dimensions of how our lived experiences matter in the products and experiences we create for each other and customers, Dr. Burge serves on the advisory board for the Center for Minorities and People with DIsabilities in IT (CMD-IT) (since 2015), the Virginia Tech Alumni Advisory Board for the Computer Science Department (since 2017); the Friends of Technology Advisory Board (Advisors to the President), at Grambling State University (since 2019); and the Center for Inclusive Computing, at Northeastern University (since 2020). She is a graduate of Fisk University and holds a PhD in Computer Science from Virginia Tech. In addition to serving as a research and industry practitioner, she has also been a computer science professor at several HBCU’s, including Spelman College, North Carolina A&T State University, and Howard University. In 2020, she began serving on the National Academy of Science Committee on Addressing the Underrepresentation of Women of Color in Tech.
Dr. Jamika Burge joins us for her second appearance on the Modern Figures Podcast. She talks about the origin of the BlackComputeHER conference and how it focuses on the intersection of identity while providing space for community. What began as a conference now includes a Fellows program, and the citeHER publication program. Dr. Burge shares how her organization became a thought leader in changing the conversation on Black women in tech.
Episode 36 – Not Your Average Computer Scientist (part 2)
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Christina Gardner-McCune
Twitter:
@Dr_GMcCune
@EngLearnLab_UF
Episode Description: In part two of this two-part episode, we hear what Christina has been up to in the AIforK12 space.
Christina’s Bio – Dr. Gardner-McCune is currently an associate professor at the University of Florida. She has a B. S. degree in Computer Engineering from Syracuse University and earned both her master’s and a doctorate in Computer Science from Georgia Institute of Technology with specializations in Software Engineering and Learning Sciences and Technology. In addition, she completed a postdoctoral research position in Computer Science Education at the Georgia Institute of Technology.
Her research focuses on the integration of computing across the middle and high school curriculum. Through her research, she designs interest and disciplinary-based curriculum and after-school & summer camp programs to engage middle and high school students in science and computing. She uses these learning environments to broaden participation in computing and for computing education research.
In part two of this two-part episode, we hear what Christina has been up to in the AIforK12 space.
Episode 35 – Not Your Average Computer Scientist
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Christina Gardner-McCune
Twitter:
@Dr_GMcCune
@EngLearnLab_UF
Episode Description: In part one of this two-part episode, we hear the origin story of someone who was not your average computer scientist growing up. Dr. Christina Gardner-McCune was not “sitting around building servers” in her free time. Instead, she participated in student government cheerleading and developed a passion for education-based interventions. Although she had a couple of setbacks and restarts in her educational journey with her mother’s encouragement and a desire to blend her creativity with computer science, Dr. Gardner McCune was able to lay the foundations for her career successfully.
Christina’s Bio – Dr. Gardner-McCune is currently an associate professor at the University of Florida. She has a B. S. degree in Computer Engineering from Syracuse University and earned both her master’s and a doctorate in Computer Science from Georgia Institute of Technology with specializations in Software Engineering and Learning Sciences and Technology. In addition, she completed a postdoctoral research position in Computer Science Education at the Georgia Institute of Technology.
Her research focuses on the integration of computing across the middle and high school curriculum. Through her research, she designs interest and disciplinary-based curriculum and after-school & summer camp programs to engage middle and high school students in science and computing. She uses these learning environments to broaden participation in computing and for computing education research.
In part one of this two-part episode, we hear the origin story of someone who was not your average computer scientist growing up. Dr. Christina Gardner-McCune was not "sitting around building servers" in her free time. Instead, she participated in student government cheerleading and developed a passion for education-based interventions. Although she had a couple of setbacks and restarts in her educational journey with her mother's encouragement and a desire to blend her creativity with computer science, Dr. Gardner McCune was able to lay the foundations for her career successfully.
Corrections:
Dr. Gardner McCune was an AP CS Principles Development committee member, not the leader of the committee as stated in the episode. Dr. Gardner McCune's Middle School Vice Principal's name was Mr. Salters.
Episode 34 – All The Resources
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guests: Daniela Cárdenas, Alejandra Guzmán, and Elyse Okwu
Episode Description: In this episode, Alejandra, Daniela, and Elyse discuss all of the resources! This dynamic trio works within the Computing Research Association to manage, organize, and implement programs that create positive experiences for individuals from populations underrepresented in computing research and education. So whether you are an undergraduate student interested in computing, a graduate student looking for community, an early or mid faculty, or someone working in industry, they probably have a program for you. Many of the guests we have had on the podcast have mentioned these exact programs or programs very similar. They have talked about how integral the programs were in their success in the computing world, so we wanted you to hear from the women helping make it happen!
Daniela’s Bio – As Sr. Program Associate, Daniela supports CRA and CRA-WP program activities with administrative and logistical matters such as planning meetings, workshops, outreach activities, and committee support. Daniela holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and Government and a minor in Education from Florida State University. In her spare time, Daniela enjoys boxing, painting, and spending time with friends.
Alejandra’s Bio – Alejandra graduated from Brown University in 2015 with an Education Studies degree. During her undergraduate career, she was deeply involved with student organizations that supported underrepresented student communities such as first-gen, low-income, etc.
She has continued that work in her professional career as she supports disenfranchised students, particularly in STEM fields. Before joining CRA, Alejandra promoted computer science learning through Code Success, a Google-sponsored program at the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), which focused on enhancing NSBE members’ CS technical skills as well as professional skills to ensure they were job ready upon graduation. In her free time, Alejandra enjoys spending time with her family, reading, running, and playing with her cats.
Elyse’s Bio – Prior to joining CRA-WP, Elyse worked as a research associate at Arizona State University to examine factors of persistence for women in STEM doctoral programs nationwide. At the University of Pittsburgh’s Swanson School of Engineering, she worked with INVESTING NOW to expose young women to engineering. Elyse is passionate about working with underserved populations to ensure that access and equity are attainable in their quest for education in STEM.
Elyse holds a Master’s of Education from the University of Pittsburgh and a Bachelor’s in Mass Media Arts from Clark Atlanta University. She is an HBCU enthusiast who believes in helping students “find a way or make one” in higher education. Elyse is the proud mother of a sweet toddler son, and their happy place is the beach.
In this episode, Portia and Katherine delve into how they work with Karat to identify the factors that are keeping capable Black people out of tech jobs. They have launched the Brilliant Black Minds program to address these gaps and help Black people and a full-time job in tech. If you haven’t heard, Karat is the go-to company when it comes to finding and interviewing software engineering talent that goes to big tech companies. In fact, they have committed to offering $1 million dollars of free support to get Black people into tech, The episode is full of practical tips for entering the tech workforce as a person of color. If you’re thinking of changing careers and/or making your break into tech, this is the episode you shouldn’t miss.
Karat #HowardUniversity #ImpactAnalytics #BrilliantBlackMinds #RiseLab #DEI
equalPay #impostorSyndrome #StereotypeThreat
In this episode, Portia and Katherine delve into how they work with Karat to identify the factors that are keeping capable Black people out of tech jobs. They have launched the Brilliant Black Minds program to address these gaps and help Black people and a full-time job in tech. If you haven’t heard, Karat is the go-to company when it comes to finding and interviewing software engineering talent that goes to big tech companies. In fact, they have committed to offering $1 million dollars of free support to get Black people into tech, The episode is full of practical tips for entering the tech workforce as a person of color. If you’re thinking of changing careers and/or making your break into tech, this is the episode you shouldn’t miss.
Karat #HowardUniversity #ImpactAnalytics #BrilliantBlackMinds #RiseLab #DEI
equalPay #impostorSyndrome #StereotypeThreat
Episode 33 – Securing the Technical Bag
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guests: Portia Kibble Smith and Dr. Katherine Picho-Kiroga
Portia’s LinkedIn: Portia Kibble Smith
Portia’s Email: [listen for it in the episode … because … bots]
Katherine’s Twitter: @drkpicho
Katherine’s LinkedIn:Katherine Picho-Kiroga
Katherine’s Research Lab: RISE Lab
Karat’s Website: https://karat.com
Brilliant Black Minds Program: Brilliant Black Minds
Episode Description: In this episode, Portia and Katherine delve into how they work with Karat to identify the factors that are keeping capable Black people out of tech jobs. They have launched the Brilliant Black Minds program to address these gaps and help Black people and a full-time job in tech. If you haven’t heard, Karat is the go-to company when it comes to finding and interviewing software engineering talent that goes to big tech companies. In fact, they have committed to offering $1 million dollars of free support to get Black people into tech. The episode is full of practical tips for entering the tech workforce as a person of color. If you’re thinking of changing careers and/or making your break into tech, this is the episode you shouldn’t miss.
Portia’s Bio – Portia Kibble-Smith is the Head of Diversity Equity and Inclusion at Karat. She has dedicated her career to helping more Black professionals land roles within tech and continues to pioneer that work at Karat. She has played a key role in helping launch the Brilliant Black Minds program to honor the rich legacy of genius found throughout Black America and empower the next generation of Black engineers, and co-authored the Interview Access Gap Report for Black Engineers alongside Dr. Katherine Picho-Kiroga and Dr. Legand Burge III.
Katherine’s Bio – Dr. Katherine Picho-Kiroga is a quantitative research methodologist by training, with a doctorate in Social and Educational Psychology from the University of Connecticut. Katherine’s research centers on the role of social learning contexts and their impact on the interest, engagement and performance of women and people of color in Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). Specifically, she seeks to understand key contextual factors that exacerbate stereotype threat in K-12 school settings, and how these contexts interact with psychological factors to sabotage the achievement of members of these groups in STEM.
Episode 32 – Cultivating Tech
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Nashlie Sephus
Nashlie’s LinkedIn: Nashlie Sephus, Ph.D.
Nashlie’s Twitter: @phenomenashlie
Nashlie’s Instagram: @phenomenashlie
Nashlie’s Ted Talk: “The How and Why of Diversity in Tech“
Bean Path Instagram: @TheBeanPath
Episode Description: Modest in nature, Dr. Nashlie Sephus is a tech giant. A native of Jackson Mississippi, she grew up doing it ALL. She has worked with everyone. She knows everyone. She probably has your number. As a tech evangelist and gardening enthusiast, everything she touches springs to life. Her mantra, “doing what I’m supposed to do and always doing my best” has propelled her into unimaginable spaces and places.
Nashlie’s Bio: Dr. Nashlie Sephus is the Tech Evangelist for Amazon AI focusing on fairness and identifying biases at AWS AI. She formerly led the Amazon Visual Search team as an Applied Scientist in Atlanta, which launched visual search for replacement parts on the Amazon Shopping app in June 2018. In 2018, Dr. Sephus became the founder and CEO of The Bean Path non-profit organization based in Jackson, MS assisting individuals and startups with technical expertise and guidance. In September of 2020, she became the owner and developer of the Jackson Tech District—14-acres of mixed-use commercial real-estate in downtown Jackson—to bring tech training and workforce/economic development to the area.
Jewel Burks Solomon – LinkedIn
Modest in nature, Dr. Nashlie Sephus is a tech giant. A native of Jackson Mississippi, she grew up doing it ALL. She has worked with everyone, she knows everyone, she probably has your number.
Episode 31 – Like a Kid in a Computing Store
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Amber Johnson Avery
Amber’s Instagram: @CallMeRudy
Kidult’s Instagram: @TheKidultLife
Bean Path Instagram: @TheBeanPath
Episode Description: Being the first Black woman to earn a PhD in Computer Science at Purdue University is only one part of Amber’s story. Amber has always been curious and interested in gadgets (and their destruction at times) which led to her interest in computer science. Despite being discouraged from pursuing the PhD by her initial advisor, Amber never forgot her purpose and persevered to the end. True to form, her passion for giving back is evidenced by her drive to build visualization tools for electronic healthcare records to make predictions that inform treatment guidelines. Currently, Amber is giving back to her community in Jackson Mississippi, as the COO and co-founder of the JXN Tech District, a $150M live-work-play, mixed-use real estate development project in Jackson, MS.
Amber’s Bio: Dr. Amber Johnson Avery is a Jackson, MS native, entrepreneur, and trailblazer. She is the owner of The Kidult Life, a lifestyle brand she founded after becoming the first black woman to graduate with a PhD in Computer Science from Purdue University. Dr. Amber is also Chief Operating Officer (COO) and co-founder of the JXN Tech District, a $150M live-work-play, mixed-use real estate development project in downtown Jackson, MS.
Dr. Amber attended Lanier High School, Tougaloo College, The LeMoyne-Owen College, and Jackson State University (JSU). As an undergraduate student Dr. Amber was a 2-sport athlete and student ambassador. Dr. Amber earned a M.S. in Computer Science from JSU as a Louis Stokes Mississippi Alliance for Minority Participation (LSMAMP) Bridge to the Doctorate scholar. Upon graduating from JSU, Dr. Amber pursued a PhD at Purdue University where she served in many capacities, most notably, President of the Computer Science Graduate Student Board where she piloted programs aimed to create community within the Computer Science department. Dr. Amber also piloted her PhD research, where she developed a suite of software tools, changing the way in which medical professionals treat and assess chronic conditions in patients. Her contributions to the field were greatly inspired by her aunt, who suffered from a chronic lung disease and passed away while Dr. Amber was pursuing her PhD.
Dr. Amber worked as a software engineer for Northrop Grumman, where she was a part of the Future Technical Leader (FTL) Program. She has helped mobilize a number of startup companies as well as pilot and develop educational programs. Dr. Amber has served as an instructor and mentor for organizations such as Girls Who Code, Black Girls Lead, and BRIGHT-CS, National Coalition of 100 Black Women (in partnership with Apple), which all aim to bridge the digital divide and pour into youth through tech programming.
Dr. Amber’s experience in several tech sectors, both public and private, has been a driving force for innovation through entrepreneurship, consulting, software engineering, software development, and education. In 2019, Dr. Amber coined the phrase, “Be who you are no matter where you are.” and founded The Kidult Life to encourage others to embrace the kid at heart and be themselves no matter the space they’re in. Dr. Amber currently supports operations for The Bean Path, a non-profit organization based in Jackson, MS, assisting individuals and startups with technical expertise and guidance.
Being the first Black woman to earn a PhD in Computer Science at Purdue University is only one part of Amber’s story. Amber has always been curious and interested in gadgets (and their destruction at times) which led to her interest in computer science. Despite being discouraged from pursuing the PhD by her initial advisor, Amber never forgot her purpose and persevered to the end. True to form, her passion for giving back is evidenced by her drive to build visualization tools for electronic healthcare records to make predictions that inform treatment guidelines. Currently, Amber is giving back to her community in Jackson Mississippi, as the COO and co-founder of the JXN Tech District, a $150M live-work-play, mixed-use real estate development project in Jackson, MS.
Dr. Karina Liles is nothing short of amazing. She has been using technology to solve problems from a young age. From teaching colors to her sister at a young age, to being the on-call tech guru for her family and friends, creating clever scripts to get her job done faster, and making video games for her brother, Karina has always been an advocate of using technology to engage others. Currently, as the Chair of the Mathematics and Computer Science Department Claflin University, an educational consultant, and the creator of the STEM Truck SC, Karina ensures that the next generation of computer scientists are just as excited about computing as she is.
Episode 29 – Big STEM Energy
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Karina Liles
Karina’s Instagram: @DrKLiles
Karina’s Facebook: @Karina.Liles
STEM Truck’s Instagram: @STEMTruck
STEM Truck’s Facebook: @STEMTruck
Description: Dr. Karina Liles is nothing short of amazing. She has been using technology to solve problems from a young age. From teaching colors to her sister at a young age, to being the on-call tech guru for her family and friends, creating clever scripts to get her job done faster, and making video games for her brother, Karina has always been an advocate of using technology to engage others. Currently, as the Chair of the Mathematics and Computer Science Department Claflin University, an educational consultant, and the creator of the STEM Truck SC, Karina ensures that the next generation of computer scientists are just as excited about computing as she is.
Karina’s Bio: Dr. Karina Liles is a native of Bennettsville, SC in Marlboro County. She is the Chair of the department of Mathematics and Computer Science where she teaches computer science courses. She is the director of the Social Technologies and Robotics (STAR) Lab.
Prior to employment at Claflin University, Dr. Liles taught computer science courses at University of South Carolina. She has also worked for Pacific Northwest National Lab (PNNL), AT&T, and Merrill Lynch as a technology analyst. She has worked at Northeastern Technical College as a Research and Statistical Analyst and adjunct professor. Dr. Liles has also served as a Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) consultant for K-12 school districts and currently owns a STEM Truck, a mobile STEM classroom that visits rural areas and provides STEM resources to students and educators.
Episode 29 - Applying Pressure Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen Guests: Erik Russell and Dr. Burçin Tamer Description: If you’ve watched Disney’s newest hit movie Encanto, you can relate to this episode. We all feel like Luisa at times, but instead of crumbling under the weight of the pressure to address inequities in computing, the Computing Research Association is applying pressure through data-driven, evidenced based initiatives to promote broadening participation. This is Data that’ll tip, tip, tip, the scales towards inclusion.
Erik's Bio: As Director of Programs at the Computing Research Association (CRA), Erik provides operational leadership, program management, and relationship building for the organization. Working closely with the CRA Committee on Widening Participation (CRA-WP), Erik drives CRA's talent development initiatives with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through careful engagement, recruitment, cultivation, and support of talent, he aims to amplify efforts to promote advanced computing research. Before joining CRA, Erik worked to advance computer science education through his service as an Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow within the Directorate for Computer & Information Science & Engineering at the National Science Foundation. Erik has been actively working to engage and retain students from groups historically underserved in computer science research.
Burçin's Bio: Dr. Burcin Tamer is the Director of Center for Evaluating the Research Pipeline (CERP) at the Computing Research Association (CRA). Dr. Tamer leads a number of projects that collect data, conduct research and evaluation, and engage with the computing community to support the community’s efforts to broaden participation in computing. These projects include BPCnet.org, which is an NSF-funded project that provides resources and services to the community to successfully develop and implement impactful BPC Plans.
Episode 29 – Applying Pressure
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guests: Erik Russell and Dr. Burçin Tamer
Description: If you’ve watched Disney’s newest hit movie Encanto, you can relate to this episode. We all feel like Luisa at times, but instead of crumbling under the weight of the pressure to address inequities in computing, the Computing Research Association is applying pressure through data-driven, evidenced based initiatives to promote broadening participation. This is Data that’ll tip, tip, tip, the scales towards inclusion.
Erik’s Bio:
As Director of Programs at the Computing Research Association (CRA), Erik provides operational leadership, program management, and relationship building for the organization. Working closely with the CRA Committee on Widening Participation (CRA-WP), Erik drives CRA’s talent development initiatives with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through careful engagement, recruitment, cultivation, and support of talent, he aims to amplify efforts to promote advanced computing research.
Before joining CRA, Erik worked to advance computer science education through his service as an Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow within the Directorate for Computer & Information Science & Engineering at the National Science Foundation. Erik has been actively working to engage and retain students from groups historically underserved in computer science research.
Burçin’s Bio:
Dr. Burcin Tamer is the Director of Center for Evaluating the Research Pipeline (CERP) at the Computing Research Association (CRA). Dr. Tamer leads a number of projects that collect data, conduct research and evaluation, and engage with the computing community to support the community’s efforts to broaden participation in computing. These projects include BPCnet.org, which is an NSF-funded project that provides resources and services to the community to successfully develop and implement impactful BPC Plans.
Episode 28 - Wandavision Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen Guest: Dr. Wanda Eugene Description: Dr. Wanda Eugene, an actor turned engineer, has ALL of the degrees. She found her home and community in engineering through an unlikely path. Hear about how she uses her expertise in computer science, industrial engineering, instructional technology, entrepreneurship, and African-American studies to make her impact on the world.
Bio: Wanda Eugene, Ph.D. is constantly seeking out new ways to leverage technology to engage underserved communities. As a principal at DEEP Designs LLC, she specializes in cultivating technology with vulnerable populations and integrates the strategic direction of the organization. As the Executive Director of Computing and Society Engagement (CASE), she has launched Entrepreneur Diversity in Information Technology (EDIT), a free incubator program that works with underserved minorities to launch tech-based businesses. In parallel with this work, she serves as a Research Assistant Scientist in the University of Florida Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, Computer & Information Science & Engineering Department, where she explores how cultural, social, and personal surroundings affect the appropriation of computational artifacts and ideas of how they can serve as a resource for the design of new technologies.
Dr. Eugene holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science, a Master’s in Industrial Engineering and a Master’s in Interdisciplinary Studies specializing in Instructional Technology and African American Studies and a Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering.
Episode 28 – Wandavision
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Wanda Eugene
Description: Dr. Wanda Eugene, an actor turned engineer, has ALL of the degrees. She found her home and community in engineering through an unlikely path. Hear about how she uses her expertise in computer science, industrial engineering, instructional technology, entrepreneurship, and African-American studies to make her impact on the world.
Bio: Wanda Eugene, Ph.D. is constantly seeking out new ways to leverage technology to engage underserved communities. As a principal at DEEP Designs LLC, she specializes in cultivating technology with vulnerable populations and integrates the strategic direction of the organization. As the Executive Director of Computing and Society Engagement (CASE), she has launched Entrepreneur Diversity in Information Technology (EDIT), a free incubator program that works with underserved minorities to launch tech-based businesses. In parallel with this work, she serves as a Research Assistant Scientist in the University of Florida Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, Computer & Information Science & Engineering Department, where she explores how cultural, social, and personal surroundings affect the appropriation of computational artifacts and ideas of how they can serve as a resource for the design of new technologies.
Dr. Eugene holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science, a Master’s in Industrial Engineering and a Master’s in Interdisciplinary Studies specializing in Instructional Technology and African American Studies and a Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering.
Episode 27 - Guess Who's Back, Back Again Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen Description: We are back (again). We have a BIG update (listen until the end). In this episode, we reflect a bit on the progress of the podcast so far. Listen to hear what we have been up to since the panini press began, podcast updates, job updates, life updates, and everything in between.
Episode 27 – Guess Who’s Back, Back Again
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Description:We are back (again). We have a BIG update (listen until the end). In this episode, we reflect a bit on the progress of the podcast so far. Listen to hear what we have been up to since the panini press began, podcast updates, job updates, life updates, and everything in between.
Episode 26 – Best Revenge is Your Paper
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Pamela Gibbs
Website: http://www.pamelasgibbs.com
Instagram: @pamelaDisrupts
Twitter: @pameladisrupts
LinkedIn: Pamela Gibbs
Description: From a young age, Pamela Gibbs wanted to know all the things. As an avid reader, her interest in solving the great mysteries of the world and speaking truth to power led her to pursue a career in research (and to spending a lot of time being grounded). It comes at no surprise that she ended up pursuing degrees in several disciplines, giving her a set of broad perspectives and experiences. Today, Pam is pursuing her doctoral degree while working in human factors engineering at Walmart. In this episode, we discuss family, business, banking, diversity, tech, Beyoncé, and more. Join us as she shares what inspires her to continue to learn and grow and how that’s shifted through the years.
Bio: Pamela Gibbs has over a decade of finance, sales, business strategy experience along with 5+ years of technical expertise in the field of computer science. Her background is very diverse, she is currently working as a Technology Design Researcher for Walmart, and completing her doctoral studies in Information and Interaction Design at the University of Baltimore. Prior to that she completed dual bachelor of science degrees in International Business and Marketing as well as a Masters in Business Administration from Penn State University. Combining her technical and business knowledge, Pamela looks forward to helping dismantle some of the barriers to access regarding education, technology, and finance that impact underrepresented groups- particularly black women, while continually shattering the glass ceiling. She currently serves as a member of the Board of Trustees for the Anita Borg Institute for Women and Technology, where she uses her platform to inspire and fuel the current and future generation of women in technology. She is a proud wife, mother, member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated, and lover of all things Beyoncé.
Episode 26 - Best Revenge is Your Paper Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen Guest: Pamela Gibbs Website: http://www.pamelasgibbs.com Instagram: @pamelaDisrupts Twitter: @pameladisrupts
LinkedIn: Pamela Gibbs
Description: From a young age, Pamela Gibbs wanted to know all the things. As an avid reader, her interest in solving the great mysteries of the world and speaking truth to power led her to pursue a career in research (and to spending a lot of time being grounded). It comes at no surprise that she ended up pursuing degrees in several disciplines, giving her a set of broad perspectives and experiences. Today, Pam is pursuing her doctoral degree while working in human factors engineering at Walmart. In this episode, we discuss family, business, banking, diversity, tech, Beyoncé, and more. Join us as she shares what inspires her to continue to learn and grow and how that’s shifted through the years.
Bio: Pamela Gibbs has over a decade of finance, sales, business strategy experience along with 5+ years of technical expertise in the field of computer science. Her background is very diverse, she is currently working as a Technology Design Researcher for Walmart, and completing her doctoral studies in Information and Interaction Design at the University of Baltimore. Prior to that she completed dual bachelor of science degrees in International Business and Marketing as well as a Masters in Business Administration from Penn State University. Combining her technical and business knowledge, Pamela looks forward to helping dismantle some of the barriers to access regarding education, technology, and finance that impact underrepresented groups- particularly black women, while continually shattering the glass ceiling. She currently serves as a member of the Board of Trustees for the Anita Borg Institute for Women and Technology, where she uses her platform to inspire and fuel the current and future generation of women in technology. She is a proud wife, mother, member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated, and lover of all things Beyoncé.
Episode 25 - Corporate-ish. Identity, Retention: Her Passion, Our Mission. Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen Guest: Dr. Denae Ford Robinson Website: http://denaeford.me Twitter: @denaefordrobin LinkedIn: Dr. Denae Ford Robinson Description: If you visit Dr. Denae Ford Robinson's website you’ll learn a lot about her. One of the first things you’ll see is that she’s focused on dismantling barriers in computer science. And so are we! Denae is passionate about understanding how identity plays a role in retaining underrepresented people in tech, with a specific research focus on cognitive and social barriers in socio-technical ecosystems. We talk a lot about this and the strategies she’s seen that make a difference, including mentoring, which is just one of the many ways we seek to broaden participation in computing at iAAMCS and NCWIT.Though she’s taken her talents to industry, Denae maintains one foot in the academy. Listen in and learn how you too can pursue publishable research in a corporate environment (which is a big deal for those of us with doctoral degrees). Bio: Dr. Denae Ford Robinson is a Senior Researcher in the SAINT group at Microsoft Research where her research lies at the intersection of Human-Computer Interaction and Software Engineering. Her current research focuses on how empathetic mechanisms can facilitate collaboration for software engineers in online socio-technical ecosystems globally through an extended cultural lens. Dr. Ford Robinson earned her Ph.D. in Computer Science and a graduate minor in Cognitive Science, M.S. in Computer Science, and B.S. in Computer Science from North Carolina State University. As a scholar student athlete, she found the joy in computing and let it run from there, literally. Throughout her Ph.D. academic career, she has interned and collaborated with research laboratories including MIT Lincoln Laboratory, Microsoft Research, Stack Overflow, and Facebook Research. Her dissertation research creates and applies a framework for dismantling barriers to participation titled "Identity-Based Signals and E-Mentorship to Support Engagement in Online Programming Communities", which cites her impactful collaboration with Stack Overflow on the Mentorship Program. Dr. Ford Robinson firmly believes that her research is for software developers, so to make sure they find value in it and have the opportunity to give feedback, she writes blogs: http://blog.denaeford.me. She also blogs about her time as a PhD student at http://philosideee.com . More information about her research and papers can be found at http://denaeford.me. She has received several fellowships and awards including the National GEM Consortium Fellowship, National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship, Microsoft Research Ph.D. Fellowship, and #blackcomputer Fellowship. She was also recently recognized with the 2019 #blackcomputeHER Rising Star Award. Passionate about pouring into others, she participates in several service opportunities including serving on the Board of Directors for INTech Camp for Girls designed to inspire young Black, Latinx, and Indigenous girls in computing.
Episode 25 – Corporate-ish. Identity, Retention: Her Passion, Our Mission.
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Denae Ford Robinson
Website: http://denaeford.me
Twitter: @denaefordrobin
LinkedIn: Dr. Denae Ford Robinson
Description:
If you visit Dr. Denae Ford Robinson’s website you’ll learn a lot about her. One of the first things you’ll see is that she’s focused on dismantling barriers in computer science. And so are we! Denae is passionate about understanding how identity plays a role in retaining underrepresented people in tech, with a specific research focus on cognitive and social barriers in socio-technical ecosystems. We talk a lot about this and the strategies she’s seen that make a difference, including mentoring, which is just one of the many ways we seek to broaden participation in computing at iAAMCS and NCWIT.Though she’s taken her talents to industry, Denae maintains one foot in the academy. Listen in and learn how you too can pursue publishable research in a corporate environment (which is a big deal for those of us with doctoral degrees).
Bio:
Dr. Denae Ford Robinson is a Senior Researcher in the SAINT group at Microsoft Research where her research lies at the intersection of Human-Computer Interaction and Software Engineering. Her current research focuses on how empathetic mechanisms can facilitate collaboration for software engineers in online socio-technical ecosystems globally through an extended cultural lens.
Dr. Ford Robinson earned her Ph.D. in Computer Science and a graduate minor in Cognitive Science, M.S. in Computer Science, and B.S. in Computer Science from North Carolina State University. As a scholar student athlete, she found the joy in computing and let it run from there, literally. Throughout her Ph.D. academic career, she has interned and collaborated with research laboratories including MIT Lincoln Laboratory, Microsoft Research, Stack Overflow, and Facebook Research. Her dissertation research creates and applies a framework for dismantling barriers to participation titled “Identity-Based Signals and E-Mentorship to Support Engagement in Online Programming Communities”, which cites her impactful collaboration with Stack Overflow on the Mentorship Program.
Dr. Ford Robinson firmly believes that her research is for software developers, so to make sure they find value in it and have the opportunity to give feedback, she writes blogs: http://blog.denaeford.me. She also blogs about her time as a PhD student at http://philosideee.com . More information about her research and papers can be found at http://denaeford.me.
She has received several fellowships and awards including the National GEM Consortium Fellowship, National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship, Microsoft Research Ph.D. Fellowship, and #blackcomputer Fellowship. She was also recently recognized with the 2019 #blackcomputeHER Rising Star Award.
Passionate about pouring into others, she participates in several service opportunities including serving on the Board of Directors for INTech Camp for Girls designed to inspire young Black, Latinx, and Indigenous girls in computing.
Episode 24 – Working Moms Get The Job Done
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Gloria Opoku-Boateng
Instagram: @glowhyia
Twitter: @glowhyiaOB
LinkedIn: Dr. Gloria Opoku-Boateng
Description:
Gloria Opoku-Boateng met Kyla at the 2018 Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing Conference. And Kyla knew we had to interview her to share her unique story. She started her computing education in Africa while her father was working as a missionary. In high school, she and her siblings fell in love with technology. And as a result, Gloria decided to pursue computer science in college. Since she stayed in Africa to get her degree, While she didn’t have to contend with racism, she did feel isolated as one of the only women in her classes. But she persevered and went on to obtain 2 masters degrees and a PhD! Gloria’s determination (like doing 10 internships in her PhD program) is on display throughout this episode. She leveraged all her experiences which makes for an interesting career trajectory. Fun fact: Gloria is a Mom to a 7 week old and as this episode drops Jeremy’s baby girl is now 7 weeks!
Bio: As an African-American, wife, mom, sister, and woman in tech, Gloria is not your typical black woman in computing. She grew up a missionary kid who lived in different parts of the world. She is currently in a research leadership/manager role at Amazon Web Services; leading UX and design research teams for some of the most technical services Amazon provides via cloud. Prior to her current role, she led research around Capital One’s AI/ML Platform and Identity Services. She has also worked with corporate tech giants like Google, IBM, and Northrop Grumman. Her academic tech journey started with her bachelors in computer science; continued with two masters in applied health informatics and Human-Computer Interaction, and a phD that culminates health, UX research, and vulnerable populations. She is passionate about mentoring and giving back to the community. Over the last several years, she has volunteered in so many ways to teach girls how to code, mentor UX researchers, and served in various capacities with local and regional robotics competitions. With her work and passion, Gloria has been awarded several awards and recognition. She hopes to inspire women in tech with her experience and encourage black women to ‘have it all’ through balance and patience. When she is not at work or volunteering, she is spending time with her family; catching up on her favorite TV shows or book.
Episode 24 - Working Moms Get The Job DoneHosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullenGuest: Dr. Gloria Opoku-BoatengInstagram: @glowhyiaTwitter: @glowhyiaOBLinkedIn: Dr. Gloria Opoku-BoatengDescription: Gloria Opoku-Boateng met Kyla at the 2018 Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing Conference. And Kyla knew we had to interview her to share her unique story. She started her computing education in Africa while her father was working as a missionary. In high school, she and her siblings fell in love with technology. And as a result, Gloria decided to pursue computer science in college. Since she stayed in Africa to get her degree, While she didn’t have to contend with racism, she did feel isolated as one of the only women in her classes. But she persevered and went on to obtain 2 masters degrees and a PhD! Gloria’s determination (like doing 10 internships in her PhD program) is on display throughout this episode. She leveraged all her experiences which makes for an interesting career trajectory. Fun fact: Gloria is a Mom to a 7 week old and as this episode drops Jeremy’s baby girl is now 7 weeks!Bio: As an African-American, wife, mom, sister, and woman in tech, Gloria is not your typical black woman in computing. She grew up a missionary kid who lived in different parts of the world. She is currently in a research leadership/manager role at Amazon Web Services; leading UX and design research teams for some of the most technical services Amazon provides via cloud. Prior to her current role, she led research around Capital One's AI/ML Platform and Identity Services. She has also worked with corporate tech giants like Google, IBM, and Northrop Grumman. Her academic tech journey started with her bachelors in computer science; continued with two masters in applied health informatics and Human-Computer Interaction, and a phD that culminates health, UX research, and vulnerable populations. She is passionate about mentoring and giving back to the community. Over the last several years, she has volunteered in so many ways to teach girls how to code, mentor UX researchers, and served in various capacities with local and regional robotics competitions. With her work and passion, Gloria has been awarded several awards and recognition. She hopes to inspire women in tech with her experience and encourage black women to 'have it all' through balance and patience. When she is not at work or volunteering, she is spending time with her family; catching up on her favorite TV shows or book.
Episode 23 – Educating the Tech Workforce
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Lauren Thomas Quigley
Instagram: @blackGirlSTEMMagic
Twitter: @laurendthomas1
LinkedIn: Dr. Lauren Thomas Quigley
Description: Here’s a secret: you don’t have to get a degree in computing to have a career in the tech industry. Our next guest has degrees in physics, optical engineering, and engineering education, but none in computing. Today, she works for the oldest technology company in the world! Dr. Lauren Thomas Quigley’s story gives us the perspective that is often shared in engineering classrooms across the country, that completing a degree in engineering teaches you how to solve problems. It’s an algorithm that can be applied in a variety of different domains. Listen in to learn how Lauren’s degrees propelled her towards her career educating the tech workforce. And hear how her mentorship through the National Society of Black Engineers and beyond helped Jeremy accomplish her goals of completing her doctorate in engineering.
Bio: Lauren Thomas Quigley, Ph.D. is an Engineering Education researcher who focuses her work on changing STEM education so that anyone can participate in STEM and all people can benefit from technology. In her day to day work, Lauren develops learning experiences to teach people about artificial intelligence and machine learning, one of the most quickly developing and valuable technologies today. She built a university inside of a large tech company and designsAI learning experiences for a wide range of audiences including corporate executives, technical and non-technical people and the broader public. Outside of her daily work, she continues research and teaching along the intersections of STEM education, social justice and womanism frameworks.
Dr. Thomas Quigley is a proud alumna of Spelman College and Norfolk State University. She also celebrates being the first Black woman graduate of her Ph.D. program in Engineering Education in 2013. Over the years, Lauren has mentored a host of students through affiliations with the National Society of Black Engineers, past professional positions and her sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Her purpose is to change STEM education so that anyone can become an engineer and all people benefit from and get to participate in modern technology.
Here’s a secret: you don’t have to get a degree in computing to have a career in the tech industry. Our next guest has degrees in physics, optical engineering, and engineering education, but none in computing. Today, she works for the oldest technology company in the world! Dr. Lauren Thomas Quigley’s story gives us the perspective that is often shared in engineering classrooms across the country, that completing a degree in engineering teaches you how to solve problems. It’s an algorithm that can be applied in a variety of different domains. Listen in to learn how Lauren’s degrees propelled her towards her career educating the tech workforce. And hear how her mentorship through the National Society of Black Engineers and beyond helped Jeremy accomplish her goals of completing her doctorate in engineering.
In late 2019 we asked our followers on social media what they wanted to know. At the time, it was a chance to encourage participation from attendees at the Grace Hopper Celebration in Orlando in a social media challenge. But after reviewing all of the questions, we realized we should probably dive deeper into our responses. This episode focuses on answering questions related to diversity and inclusion. As Black women, we know what it’s like to exist at the intersection of two underrepresented identities in tech. We leveraged our experiences to share our take on issues relevant to us and the computing field more broadly. Our hope is that one day we’ll see a more representative tech workforce. Until then, we will keep supporting efforts that bring visibility to the need to improve the culture and climate to help broaden participation in computing in a sustainable way.
Do our answers resonate with you? Tell us how using #ModFigsPod.
Episode 22 – Ask Us Anything – Diversity and Inclusion Edition
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Description: In late 2019 we asked our followers on social media what they wanted to know. At the time, it was a chance to encourage participation from attendees at the Grace Hopper Celebration in Orlando in a social media challenge. But after reviewing all of the questions, we realized we should probably dive deeper into our responses. This episode focuses on answering questions related to diversity and inclusion. As Black women, we know what it’s like to exist at the intersection of two underrepresented identities in tech. We leveraged our experiences to share our take on issues relevant to us and the computing field more broadly. Our hope is that one day we’ll see a more representative tech workforce. Until then, we will keep supporting efforts that bring visibility to the need to improve the culture and climate to help broaden participation in computing in a sustainable way.
Do our answers resonate with you? Tell us how using #ModFigsPod
Episode 21 – The “Secret Sauce”
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Juan Gilbert
Website: www.juangilbert.com
Twitter: @DrJuanGilbert
LinkedIn: Dr. Juan Gilbert
Description: Dr. Juan Gilbert is passionate about diversifying computer science and the professoriate. He is a first generation college student whose parents instilled in him the value of education. Juan purposefully chose to be a scholar-athlete but by serendipitously became a computer scientist. His attempts to avoid graduate school obviously didn’t pan out and we are so grateful. Learn more about how he developed his model for recruiting underrepresented students, and in particular, black students and how he translated that into the Institute African-American Mentoring in Computing Sciences.
Bio:Dr. Juan E. Gilbert is the Andrew Banks Family Preeminence Endowed Professor and Chair of the Computer & Information Science & Engineering Department at the University of Florida where he leads the Human Experience Research Lab. He is the primary investigator or director of the Institute for African-American Mentoring in Computing Sciences (iAAMCS). Dr. Gilbert is also an ACM Fellow, a Fellow of the American Association of the Advancement of Science, a Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors, and a Senior Member of the IEEE.
Dr. Juan Gilbert is passionate about diversifying computer science and the professoriate. He is a first generation college student whose parents instilled in him the value of education. Juan purposefully chose to be a scholar-athlete but by serendipitously became a computer scientist. His attempts to avoid graduate school obviously didn’t pan out and we are so grateful. Learn more about how he developed his model for recruiting underrepresented students, and in particular, black students and how he translated that into the Institute African-American Mentoring in Computing Sciences.
Purchase the Book Episode 20 – Blazing Trails: Catch this Smoke
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Nicki Washington
Website: www.nickiwashington.com
Instagram: @drnickiw
Twitter: @dr_nickiw
LinkedIn: A. Nicki Washington
Description: Dr. Nicki Washington is unapologetically dope. She literally wrote the book. No, seriously! Her book entitled, Unapologetically Dope: Lessons for Black Women and Girls on Surviving and Thriving in the Tech Field, is just one of the many reasons you want to know this Modern Figure. She is a trailblazer, and is working tirelessly on ensuring pathways into tech remain available to the next generation of the black tech workforce. Nicki is also one of our favorite people to follow on social media. Her fiery passion shines through whether she’s speaking on current events or just taking an internet troll to task for challenging her expert opinion.
Bio: Dr. Nicki Washington is an associate professor of computer science at Winthrop University and the author of Unapologetically Dope: Lessons for Black Women and Girls on Surviving and Thriving in the Tech. She previously spent nine years at Howard University as the first Black female faculty member in the Department of Computer Science. Her professional experience also includes The Aerospace Corporation and IBM. Recognized as one of Essence Magazine’s “Essence Tech Stars: 15 Black Women Disrupting the Tech Industry,” Dr. Washington has led partnerships with the Howard University Middle School of Math and Science, Google, Exploring Computer Science, and Washington, DC Public Schools to introduce computer science courses and teacher professional development across Washington, DC high schools. She was a lead writer for the K-12 CS Framework (led by Code.org) and South Carolina K-12 Computer Science and Digital Literacy Standards. Her efforts in K-12 CS education have directly impacted approximately 10 million K-12 students and thousands of educators in over 20 states and Washington, DC, and they will continue to impact more nationwide as additional states develop K-12 CS standards. She is a graduate of Johnson C. Smith University (B.S., ‘00) and North Carolina State University (M.S., ’02; Ph.D., ’05), becoming the first Black woman to earn a Ph.D. at the university and 2019 Computer Science Hall of Fame Inductee. She is a native of Durham, NC.
Dr. Nicki Washington is unapologetically dope. She literally wrote the book. No, seriously! Her book entitled, Unapologetically Dope: Lessons for Black Women and Girls on Surviving and Thriving in the Tech Field, is just one of the many reasons you want to know this Modern Figure. She is a trailblazer, and is working tirelessly on ensuring pathways into tech remain available to the next generation of the black tech workforce. Nicki is also one of our favorite people to follow on social media. Her fiery passion shines through whether she’s speaking on current events or just taking an internet troll to task for challenging her expert opinion.
Episode 19 – Lessons from a 14-year old Tech Boss
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Moria Bowman
Zinger Website – Zinger App
Description:
At 14 years of age, Jeremy and Kyla couldn’t have imagined being the CEO of a tech company. Today’s guest, Moria Bowman, has been working on businesses since she was 10! Growing up in an entrepreneurial family inspires her drive to create and sustain her companies. But she has no plans to involve her other siblings. As a homeschooler, her time is a bit more flexible than other kids her age. This gives Moria time to invest in her company. Zinger, is a ride-share app designed to protect its users from danger. Listen in and more about this young tech boss and what she’s doing to improve safety on the road.
At 14 years of age, Jeremy and Kyla couldn’t have imagined being the CEO of a tech company. Today’s guest, Moria Bowman, has been working on businesses since she was 10! Growing up in an entrepreneurial family inspires her drive to create and sustain her companies. But she has no plans to involve her other siblings. As a homeschooler, her time is a bit more flexible than other kids her age. This gives Moria time to invest in her company. Zinger, is a ride-share app designed to protect its users from danger. Listen in and more about this young tech boss and what she’s doing to improve safety on the road.
Jasmine Bowers is a doctoral candidate researching digital finance privacy and security at the University of Florida. She’s known since 11th grade that she wanted to be Dr. Bowers but navigating how to get there has been an unexpected journey. She’s seen quite a bit of success publishing and presenting her work, and finding ways to incorporate hip-hop titles per her research advisor. Finding ways to better communicate privacy policies is so important, and usable security is what she’s passionate about. Hopefully, through her doctoral research mo(bile) money won’t mean mo(re) problems! We also learn about the ways in which she’s found ways to set goals and manage her expectations.
Episode 18 – Securing the Bag with Digital Swag
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Jasmine Bowers
Guest and Host Shirts are in Our Store
Website – www.jasminebowers.com
LinkedIn – Jasmine Bowers
Instagram – @JasmineDBowers
Twitter – @JasmineDBowers
Description: Jasmine Bowers is a doctoral candidate researching digital finance privacy and security at the University of Florida. She’s known since 11th grade that she wanted to be Dr. Bowers but navigating how to get there has been an unexpected journey. She’s seen quite a bit of success publishing and presenting her work, and finding ways to incorporate hip-hop titles per her research advisor. Finding ways to better communicate privacy policies is so important, and usable security is what she’s passionate about. Hopefully, through her doctoral research mo(bile) money won’t mean mo(re) problems! We also learn about the ways in which she’s found ways to set goals and manage her expectations.
Bio: Jasmine Bowers is a 5th-year computer science Ph.D. candidate at the University of Florida, where she focuses on the privacy and security of digital finance mobile applications under the advisement of Dr. Patrick Traynor. She has published several conference papers, including Regulators, Mount Up! Analysis of Privacy Policies for Mobile Money Services (SOUPS 2017) and Characterizing Security and Privacy Practices in Emerging Digital Credit Applications (WISEC 2019). During her tenure, she has also contributed to several journal publications, including *droid: Assessment and Evaluation of Android Application Analysis Tools ( ACM Computing Surveys 2019) and Mo(bile) Money, Mo(bile) Problems: Analysis of Branchless Banking Applications ( ACM TOPS 2017) . In 2015, Jasmine entered the University of Florida Computer and Information Science and Engineering (CISE) department and the Florida Institute for Cybersecurity (FICS) research lab as a GEM Fellowship scholar.
She currently serves as a graduate mentor in the University of Florida Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program. This training program is funded by the U.S. Department of Education and designed to support low-income/first-generation and underrepresented undergraduate students in their pursuit of a Ph.D.
In the summer of 2018, Jasmine served a law clerk at the Electronic Privacy Information Center, a Washington, D.C.based public interest research center that aims to focus public attention on emerging privacy and civil liberties issues. She worked alongside notable attorneys and law students on critical technology and privacy issues. She served as a technical expert during meetings and significantly contributed content for Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, government agency requests for comments, as well as the EPIC website content. Jasmine applied her mobile application analysis skills to contribute technical expertise to an ongoing case.
Most recently in the summer of 2019, Jasmine served as a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Office of Technology (OTech) summer intern. Jasmine earned two B.S. degrees in mathematics and computer science from Fort Valley State University (FVSU) and earned an M.S. in computer science from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NCAT).
Jasmine’s passion is helping others, specifically encouraging students to pursue an education in computer science.
Episode 17 – Ask Us Anything – Higher Education Edition
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Description: In late 2019, we asked our followers on social media what they wanted to know. At the time, it was a chance to encourage participation from attendees at the Grace Hopper Celebration in Orlando in a social media challenge. But after reviewing all of the questions, we realized we should probably dive deeper into our responses. This episode focuses on answering questions related to higher education. It includes suggestions for students in high school and college. We also talk about the resources we use, organizations to leverage, and advice about research. We dive into what it’s like being Black women in academia, as well as intersectionality and what that means to us. We even had a surprisingly deep question from Jeremy’s brother, @ScooterMagruder. What do you think about our answers? Use #ModFigsPod to respond.
In late 2019 we asked our followers on social media what they wanted to know. At the time, it was a chance to encourage participation from attendees at the Grace Hopper Celebration in Orlando in a social media challenge. But after reviewing all of the questions, we realized we should probably dive deeper into our responses. This episode focuses on answering questions related to higher education. It includes suggestions for students in high school and college. We also talk about the resources we use, organizations to leverage, and advice about research. We dive into what it’s like being Black women in academia, as well as intersectionality and what that means to us. We even had a surprisingly deep question from Jeremy’s brother, @ScooterMagruder. What do you think about our answers? Use #ModFigsPod to respond.
Episode 16 – Holding Space and Interrogating Privilege
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Colleen Lewis
LinkedIn – Dr. Colleen Lewis
Twitter – @CSTeachingTips
Web – CSTeachingTips.org
Description:
Dr. Colleen Lewis is our favorite ally for underrepresented populations in computing. Though she is a white female, we felt it was important to bring her on to the podcast to showcase how she has leveraged her privilege to dismantle racist systems and structures to improve the experiences of others. In other words, she’s BEEN at the cookout, and now she’s on our podcast. Her work is at the intersection of computing and education, where she focuses on issues related to gender and diversity. You can often find Dr. Lewis at conferences presenting a workshop to help educators recognize and respond to bias through research-based scenarios, or as we refer to it: “Microaggressions – The Game.” This episode is filled with gems around effective strategies for feeling included if you don’t fit within the normative depiction of a computer scientist. There’s also a sweet segment about her friend named Irene, who introduced her to the world of computing. Our takeaway from this episode: get yourself an Irene! Or better yet, a Colleen.
Bio:
Hi, I’m Colleen Lewis, and I’m humbled to get to participate in the Modern Figures Podcast! In my conversation with Dr. McMullen and Dr. Waisome, I shared some of my experiences in college that suggested I was “not cut out for CS.” People might not have expected that I’d eventually become the McGregor-Girand Associate Professor of computer science at Harvey Mudd College. Learning takes time, and the bumps in my educational journey were evidence I hadn’t learned the CS concepts yet, but not that I would never learn them. My research seeks to identify effective teaching practices for creating equitable learning spaces where all students have the opportunity to learn. I curate CSTeachingTips.org, a NSF-sponsored project for disseminating effective computer science teaching practices. I’ve worked with Dr. Kyla McMullen to help computer scientists learn to recognize and respond to microaggressions and other biased statements. When a microaggression targets one of our identities, we might choose to ignore it and prioritize self-care. For example, as a White woman, I don’t always have the energy to respond to sexism, but I think it is my responsibility to challenge racism.
Dr. Colleen Lewis is our favorite ally for underrepresented populations in computing. Though she is a white female, we felt it was important to bring her on to the podcast to showcase how she has leveraged her privilege to dismantle racist systems and structures to improve the experiences of others. In other words, she’s BEEN at the cookout, and now she’s on our podcast. Her work is at the intersection of computing and education, where she focuses on issues related to gender and diversity. You can often find Dr. Lewis at conferences presenting a workshop to help educators recognize and respond to bias through research-based scenarios, or as we refer to it: “Microaggressions - The Game.” This episode is filled with gems around effective strategies for feeling included if you don’t fit within the normative depiction of a computer scientist. There’s also a sweet segment about her friend named Irene, who introduced her to the world of computing. Our takeaway from this episode: get yourself an Irene! Or better yet, a Colleen.
Episode 15 – Big Goals & Big Data
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Dr. Renata Rawlings-Goss
LinkedIn – Dr. Renata Rawlings-Goss
Twitter – @GossRenata
Web – Good With Data
Description: Would you say no to the Alvin-Ailey Dance School? Dr. Renata Rawlings-Goss did in the name of science! Though she was enrolled in a competitive performing arts program during high school, a PBS commercial inspired her to pursue an interest in astrophysics. Her undergraduate experiences at Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University ultimately catalyzed her desire to pursue graduate school. Though she is a biophysicist by training, Dr. Rawlings-Goss currently serves as the founding Executive Director of the South Big Data Innovation Hub where she helps industry leaders leverage data science to identify solutions at the regional and national level. Learn about how she translated her skills into the discipline of computing through research.
Bio:
Dr. Renata Rawlings-Goss is a nationally recognized leader in Data Science and the founder of The Data Career Academy, a 5-week intensive for professionals and faculty looking to accelerate their careers with data, manage large scale data projects, grow a data science network, get introduced to thought leaders-including hiring managers, and get live help in creating a personalized strategic data career plan.
Dr. Rawlings-Goss is the Executive Director of the South Big Data Innovation Hub, an NSF funded 16 state center connecting industry, academia, and government around data science innovation, as well as the Director of Strategic Partnerships for the Georgia Institute of Technology- Institute for Data Engineering and Science (IDEaS).
Formerly, Dr. Rawlings-Goss worked with the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, under President Obama’s administration, founding the National Data Science Organizers and co-leading the writing team for the Federal Big Data Strategic Plan.
Through her roles, she has served as an executive strategist, career mentor, and policy advisor to Fortune 500 companies, individuals, as well as over 19 federal and state government agencies around data science education, Big Data, Digital Transformation, Public-Private Partnerships, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Machine Learning, Data Career Success, Professional Development and Data Innovation. Author of “Data Careers, Training, and Hiring” published by SpringerPress, her work has been recognized in the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal and as one of President Obama’s top 100 Impacts in Science and Technology.
Would you say no to the Alvin-Ailey Dance School? Dr. Renata Rawlings-Goss did in the name of science! Though she was enrolled in a competitive performing arts program during high school, a PBS commercial inspired her to pursue an interest in astrophysics. Her undergraduate experiences at Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University ultimately catalyzed her desire to pursue graduate school. Though she is a biophysicist by training, Dr. Rawlings-Goss currently serves as the founding Executive Director of the South Big Data Innovation Hub where she helps industry leaders leverage data science to identify solutions at the regional and national level. Learn about how she translated her skills into the discipline of computing through research.
Episode 14 - Pink & Green Robot QueenHosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullenGuest: De'Aira BryantInstagram - @DeeGotRobotsTwitter - @DeeGotRobotsWeb - www.deairabryant.comDescription: De’Aira is a graduate student conducting interdisciplinary research focused on helping children through social robotics at Georgia Institute of Technology. Listen in as she discusses what it’s like to be a “high profile graduate student” traveling the world, sharing how we can leverage artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, ethics, and machine learning to improve outcomes for society. Her experiences now are a long way from those she had in her hometown in South Carolina within the “Corridor of Shame.” Her unconventional route into computing is hilarious but shows just how important mentorship and community is for Black women in computing.Bio:De’Aira Bryant is a third-year computer science Ph.D. student in the School of Interactive Computing at the Georgia Institute of Technology. Her research areas span the fields of human-robot interaction, artificial intelligence and cognitive science. As a graduate researcher in the Human-Automation Systems (HumAnS) Lab, her studies explore the possibilities for interactive communication between children and social robots. She is especially passionate about the fair and ethical use of AI for social good and the protection of vulnerable populations. Prior to attending Georgia Tech for her graduate studies, De’Aira graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of South Carolina with a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and a minor in Mathematics. She is a recipient of the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship, the National GEM Consortium Fellowship, the SLOAN Minority PhD Fellowship and the Lillie J. James Computer Science award. Hailing from the small town of Estill, South Carolina, De’Aira is also an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She has demonstrated a long history of service work and is particularly involved in a variety of computer science and robotics outreach programs. De’Aira even recently gave a TEDx talk entitled “Paying it Forward with Social Robots.” In the long term, she dreams of pursuing a career in academia to further inspire and promote computer science education for all students.
Episode 14 – Pink & Green Robot Queen
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: De’Aira Bryant
Instagram – @DeeGotRobots
Twitter – @DeeGotRobots
Web – www.deairabryant.com
Description:
De’Aira is a graduate student conducting interdisciplinary research focused on helping children through social robotics at Georgia Institute of Technology. Listen in as she discusses what it’s like to be a “high profile graduate student” traveling the world, sharing how we can leverage artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, ethics, and machine learning to improve outcomes for society. Her experiences now are a long way from those she had in her hometown in South Carolina within the “Corridor of Shame.” Her unconventional route into computing is hilarious but shows just how important mentorship and community is for Black women in computing.
Bio:
De’Aira Bryant is a third-year computer science Ph.D. student in the School of Interactive Computing at the Georgia Institute of Technology. Her research areas span the fields of human-robot interaction, artificial intelligence and cognitive science. As a graduate researcher in the Human-Automation Systems (HumAnS) Lab, her studies explore the possibilities for interactive communication between children and social robots. She is especially passionate about the fair and ethical use of AI for social good and the protection of vulnerable populations.
Prior to attending Georgia Tech for her graduate studies, De’Aira graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of South Carolina with a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and a minor in Mathematics. She is a recipient of the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship, the National GEM Consortium Fellowship, the SLOAN Minority PhD Fellowship and the Lillie J. James Computer Science award.
Hailing from the small town of Estill, South Carolina, De’Aira is also an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She has demonstrated a long history of service work and is particularly involved in a variety of computer science and robotics outreach programs. De’Aira even recently gave a TEDx talk entitled “Paying it Forward with Social Robots.” In the long term, she dreams of pursuing a career in academia to further inspire and promote computer science education for all students.
Imagine taking a leap of faith to start something new when you secure in your perceived dream tech job. Khalia Braswell took the reins of her career to pursue her dream of creating a organization that serves her community and it is thriving. And now, she fulfilling a new dream of obtaining a doctoral degree. Learn how she navigated the twists and turns she encountered along the way.
Episode 13 – In charge, INTech, and in grad school
Hosts: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Khalia Braswell
Instagram – @digital.diva, @intechcamp
Twitter – @KhaliaBraswell
Web – https://www.khaliabraswell.com, https://intechcamp.org
Description:
Imagine taking a leap of faith to start something new when you’re already secure in your perceived dream tech job. Khalia Braswell took the reins of her career to pursue her dream of creating an organization that serves her community and it is thriving. And now, she’s fulfilling a new dream of obtaining a doctoral degree. Learn how she navigated the twists and turns she encountered along the way.
Bio:
Khalia Braswell is an award winning technologist, whose personal mission is to make a social change using technology. Khalia graduated from Phillip O. Berry Academy of Technology in 2008. She went on to study at North Carolina State University, graduating with a BS in Computer Science. In 2016, she also obtained her Masters in Information Technology with a concentration in Human Computer Interaction. Khalia is currently the Founder and Executive Director of INTech Camp for Girls, a non-profit whose mission is to inform and inspire girls to innovate in the technology industry. INTech targets girls in grades 6th – 12th through summer camps and after school programs, which teaches them how to build software solutions, introduces them to women of color in tech, and allows them to explore tech careers at various companies across the Carolina’s.
As a speaker and moderator, Khalia has given a TEDx talk highlighting ways to get more Black and Latinx girls in tech. She has also shared stages with notable leaders including John B. King Jr., former US Secretary of Education, and senior executives at Apple among others. She has also presented at Northwestern University, Apple, and the Grace Hopper Celebration of Diversity in Computing. She has been featured in Forbes, The Root, Charlotte Observer, and more.
Braswell was previously a user experience engineer at Apple in Cupertino, California where she helped design enterprise applications, which reached all Apple employees. She has been named to the 2016 Charlotte Mecklenburg Black Chamber of Commerce 30 Under 30 list, the 2017 North Carolina State University Computer Science Outstanding Young Alumni list, 2018 NAF Alumni Honoree’s, and the 2018 Root 100 list of the most influential young African Americans. Khalia has also received the 2018 Walker’s Legacy Women of Power award, the 2019 BlackcomputeHER “Lift As We Climb” award, and the Emerald Elegance Award For Technology from the Alpha Lambda Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc .
Braswell is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated and the National Society of Black Engineers.
Episode 12 – Squad Goals
Host: Dr. Jeremy Waisome & Dr. Kyla McMullen
Guest: Isa Watson
Instagram – @isadwatson
Twitter – @isadwatson
Web – https://www.isawatson.com
Description:
Join us as we chat with Isa Watson. She talks about her childhood rooted in curiosity, kindness, and humility, fostered by her parents. Hear about her experience transitioning from the HBCU community to an Ivy League. Though she began as a Chemistry major, Isa skillfully navigated Silicon Valley, and is now the CEO of a Tech Company called “Squad”, which raised nearly $4mm in venture capital funding and has scaled rapidly. She has always been a believer in the importance of community at all stages, and her story will inspire you to do the same.
Bio:
A Caribbean girl in America, Isa (pronounced EYE-suh) is an Inc 30 under 30 entrepreneur and a classical pianist. She is the Founder and CEO of Squad, a leader in the newly coined “connection economy.” Squad’s app helps millennials + gen-z build their offline + IRL connections in real human ways. A scientist at heart, she loves bringing heavy data and a fresh perspective to fundamental human problems. Isa grew up in Chapel Hill, NC and started her career as a chemist for the metabolic diseases group at Pfizer before pivoting over to the world of business.
After getting her MBA, Isa worked as a VP of Strategy and Business Development at JPMorgan Chase before deciding that her real interest was in applying her medley of skills towards problems affecting local communities. She founded Envested in 2015 to merge her various experiences into one awesome company.
Some of her prior accolades include the “40 Under 40” Award from the Robert Toigo Foundation and 1st place in the Annual Business Plan Competition at Harvard Business School with Vaxess Technologies.
Isa has earned an MBA from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, an MS in Pharmacology from Cornell, and a BS in Chemistry from Hampton University. She is a very active member of the MIT Sloan Executive Alumni Board.
Join us as we chat with Isa Watson. She talks about her childhood rooted in curiosity, kindness, and humility, fostered by her parents. Hear about her experience transitioning from the HBCU community to an Ivy League. Though she began as a Chemistry major, Isa skillfully navigated Silicon Valley, and is now the CEO of a Tech Company called “Squad”, which raised nearly $4mm in venture capital funding and has scaled rapidly. She has always been a believer in the importance of community at all stages, and her story will inspire you to do the same.
Episode 11 – Started from the Java, Now We Here
Host: Dr. Jeremy Waisome
Guest: Dr. Kyla McMullen(@Dr_Kyla (Twitter), @drkylanol (IG)) of Modern Figures Podcast
Description: In this episode, Dr. Kyla McMullen takes a seat on the opposite side of the podcast table to become a guest for the day. Dr. McMullen talks about her journey into computing, although she could not have cared less about school as a student. Today, her work in 3D audio is being used to augment interfaces in virtual and augmented reality, as well as gain insights on spatial audio perception. Tune in as Dr. McMullen tells her own unique super-shero origin story.
Bio:
Description: Dr. Kyla McMullen earned her Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), where she was also a Meyerhoff Scholar. She earned her Masters and Ph.D. degrees in Computer Science and Engineering from the University of Michigan (2007-2012). While earning her Ph.D. she was also a faculty member at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. At Wayne State University she taught computer literacy courses to over 2,000 students. Dr. McMullen is the first (and currently the only) woman of color to earn a Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering from the University of Michigan. She is currently a tenure-track faculty member in the University of Florida’s Computer & Information Sciences & Engineering Department. Dr. McMullen has a personal commitment to encouraging women and minorities to pursue careers in computing and other STEM fields. She is the author of “Beautiful, Black, and Brainy” and “Brilliant is the New Black” which showcase hundreds of exceptional young African Americans who excel in STEM fields and don’t fit the typical “scientist” stereotype.
Dr. McMullen’s research interests are in the perception, applications, and development of 3D audio technologies. In this line of research, sounds are digitally filtered such that when they are played over headphones, the listener perceives the sound as being emitted from a specific location in their own physical space. Think of it as “surround sound over headphones”. She is using this research to create realistic virtual environments, enhance data sonification, augment assistive technologies for persons with visual impairments, and decrease cognitive load in multimodal systems. She has recently earned the National Science Foundation’s CAREER Award to further support her research in this area. She is also the PI of an NSF S-STEM award to augment the financial load of graduate school for PhD students.
Dr. McMullen is also senior personnel for NSF’s Institute for African-American Mentoring in Computing Sciences (iAAMCS) effort to broaden participation in the field of computing. In this role, she has served as the conference chair for the National Society of Blacks in Computing. The conference gathers Black computing student, faculty, and industry professionals for professional development, career progress, networking, and bonding. In addition, Dr. McMullen co-hosts Modern Figures Podcast, elevating the voices of Black women in computing. This podcast is a collaborative effort iAAMCS and The National Center for Women and Information Technology (NCWIT ) to highlight the often neglected stories of Black women in computing.
n this episode, Dr. Kyla McMullen takes a seat on the opposite side of the podcast table to become a guest for the day. Dr. McMullen talks about her journey into computing, although she could not have cared less about school as a student. Today, her work in 3D audio is being used to augment interfaces in virtual and augmented reality, as well as gain insights on spatial audio perception. Tune in as Dr. McMullen tells her own unique super-shero origin story.
https://youtu.be/V7lVr9wOnCs
Episode 10 – Code[Dot].play();
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome
Guest: Dr. Raquell Holmes (@raquellholmes) of improvScience and cestemer
Description: From biology to biomedical research, and ultimately high performance computing, Dr. Raquell Holmes has had a very “circuitous” journey.
In college, she had professors who weren’t able to help foster her interest in mathematics. But one professor gave her the support she needed, by giving her a window into the life of research. It wasn’t until she was working on her graduate school research that she became interested in the world of computing. Today, her work of bringing computing to teachers, schools, and other scientists is done through her nonprofit organization, ImprovScience, where she invites people to play at work through improvisation.
Tune in as Dr. Holmes explains many aspects of her identity which were formed in her youth that influences who she is today. Our favorite quote from this episode podcast is related to the importance of finding community. She stated “I get to be Black the way I’m Black,” and we feel that!
Bio: Dr. Raquell Holmes, founder of improvscience, provides leadership development to scientific and technical organizations invested in the development of an engaged, diverse and collaborative workforce. Dr. Holmes designs programs that integrate performance and emotional intelligence to advance communication, inclusion, and discovery across scientific disciplines and cultures.
Dr. Holmes has unique abilities in fostering communication within scientifically diverse communities. Her expertise and services are invaluable to team building. Dr. Holmes founded improvscience where she uses performance to build community and expand relational and co-creative capacities. She also fosters a positive and creative social environment among professionals.
Dr. Holmes is working to change the relationship of science to the world, locally and globally. She is particularly interested in changing the relationship of science and scientists to poor communities and communities of color. Dr. Holmes has the ability to bring people together to create an environment for growth and development. She leads seminars and workshops, develops conferences, designs on-site professional development sessions, and coaches. She uses multiple platforms and locations including: improvscience, Life Performance Coaching, East Side Institute, All Stars UX, and Arizona State University.
Dr. Holmes works with individuals and companies who invest in professional growth as a critical component for engagement, leadership and building environments for excellence.
Accomplishments:
Dr. Holmes is a computational cell biologist who got her Ph.D. from Tufts Biomedical School in Boston. She stayed in the Boston area for her postdoctoral training at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School. Dr. Holmes then joined Boston University where she became a Research Assistant Professor. She authored the book Cell Biologist’s Guide to Modeling and Bioinformatics. She is an East Side Institute Associate in New York and adjunct professor at Arizona State University.
Dr. Holmes is the founder and director of improvscience, a consulting company that has worked with over 3000 scientists across the country at Harvard Medical School, University of California Berkeley, UC San Francisco, Department of Energy, Boston University, University of Connecticut Health Center, National Institutes of Health, American Chemical Society and the American Meteorological Society.
From biology to biomedical research, and ultimately high performance computing, Dr. Raquell Holmes has had a very “circuitous” journey.
In college, she had professors who weren’t able to help foster her interest in mathematics. But one professor gave her the support she needed, by giving her a window into the life of research. It wasn’t until she was working on her graduate school research that she became interested in the world of computing. Today, her work of bringing computing to teachers, schools, and other scientists is done through her nonprofit organization, ImprovScience, where she invites people to play at work through improvisation.
Tune in as Dr. Holmes explains many aspects of her identity which were formed in her youth that influences who she is today. Our favorite quote from this episode podcast is related to the importance of finding community. She stated “I get to be Black the way I’m black,” and we feel that!
With parents in computing, a career in CS was a natural fit for Dr. Day. Math was her favorite subject because she could check her answers. She was developing websites in middle school and by the time she reached HS she knew she wanted to attain a PhD. Dr. Day is the first woman to receive a PhD from NCA&T.
In this episode, you’ll learn how faith, determination, and hard work are what she believes led to her success. And she shares the importance of having multiple mentors, which may even include your parents.
https://youtu.be/55IdEhtoaXw
Episode 9 – Making History Every Day: Privacy, Security, and Authorship
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome
Guest: Dr. Siobahn Day (@drsiobahncday) [http://www.siobahncday.com]
Description: With parents in computing, a career in CS was a natural fit for Dr. Day. Math was her favorite subject because she could check her answers. She was developing websites in middle school and by the time she reached HS she knew she wanted to attain a PhD. Dr. Day is the first woman to receive a PhD in Computer Science from NCA&T.
In this episode, you’ll learn how faith, determination, and hard work are what she believes led to her success. And she shares the importance of having multiple mentors, which may even include your parents.
Bio: Siobahn received her BS in Computer Science from Winston-Salem State University in 2005, her master’s degree in Information Science from North Carolina Central University in 2009, and in 2018 obtained her master’s and doctorate of philosophy degree in Computer Science from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Siobahn is the first female Computer Science Ph.D. graduate from the department.
She is a Lecturer for the Department of Computer Science at The University of North Carolina at Greensboro and an Adjunct Assistant Professor for the Department of Computer Science at North Carolina A&T State University. Prior to this, she served as an Adjunct Instructor at several colleges and universities where she taught an array of courses in Computer Science. She has delivered numerous presentations on a variety of Technology topics at national and regional conferences.
Siobahn is also an entrepreneur. She created Dreams Creative Group in April 2015 with one goal in mind – to elevate art. Dreams Creative Group offers unique web and graphic design solutions to individuals and institutions. Siobahn and her team of employees work tirelessly to make their clients’ dreams reality.
She is a member of several associations including The Beta Iota Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Junior League of Greensboro, Winston Salem State University National Alumni Association (Life Member), and North Carolina Central University National Alumni Association (Life Member). She also serves as a volunteer for various organizations including Boy Scouts of America, FIRST North Carolina, Girl Scouts of America, and ‘Black Girls Code’, which introduces Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics skills to African American girls.
https://youtu.be/iVe7ojlAxLI
Episode 8 – Never Hustle Backwards (Part 2)
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome
Guest: Nancy Douyon (@therealnancydouyon)
Description: Humanities in technology and culture in research. Users in design and training the teacher. Branding herself for conscious customizing. These are a few of Nancy’s favorite things. In the sequel to her previous episode, Nancy schools us on the importance of inclusive UX (user experience) design and adapting technology to have a conscience. It’s impossible to design for a population that you don’t seek to understand, and she has made this her brand.
Bio: Nancy Douyon is a trailblazer in human experience design with over 15 years of industry experience building scalable user research platforms and revitalizing user interfaces at leading companies such as Uber, Google, IBM, Cisco, and Intel. Throughout her career, Nancy has gained a reputation for delivering big results in a culturally honest and purposeful way with hundreds of products deployed in over 80 countries worldwide. She consults globally on remote user research methods and development in emerging markets. Her past research examined design frameworks around the promotion, development, and implementation of global policies around user experiences in tech.
Nancy is currently developing the Douyon Signature Labs, Silicon Valley’s first social enterprise research institute focused on bridging the gap between human potential and tech innovations. She is proudly Haitian, has traveled to over 70 countries, and speaks fluent sarcasm. In her spare time, she lectures on user experience methodologies, dances in Carnivals all over the place, and lives her best life as written in her forthcoming book.
?Humanities in technology and culture in research. Users in design and training the teacher. Branding herself for conscious customizing. These are a few of Nancy’s favorite things. ? In this episode, Nancy schools us on the importance of inclusive UX (user experience) design and adapting technology to have a conscience. It’s impossible to design for a population that you don’t seek to understand, and she has made this her brand.
Listen in as Nancy Douyon, The Missy Elliot of Technology, gives insight into how her inquisitive nature opened doors. Nancy attributes much of her success to “hood logic” and not knowing any better. But truth be told, Nancy has a tenacious, never give up attitude that stems back to her Caribbean roots. We loved her “superhero origin story” so much, that this episode is just her intro!
https://youtu.be/n0RGY87vI_s
Episode 7 – All Work and All Play
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome
Guest: Nancy Douyon (@therealnancydouyon)
Description: Listen in as Nancy Douyon, The Missy Elliot of Technology, gives insight into how her inquisitive nature opened doors. Nancy attributes much of her success to “hood logic” and not knowing any better. But truth be told, Nancy has a tenacious, never give up attitude that stems back to her Caribbean roots. We loved her “superhero origin story” so much, that this episode is just her intro!
Bio: Nancy Douyon is a trailblazer in human experience design with over 15 years of industry experience building scalable user research platforms and revitalizing user interfaces at leading companies such as Uber, Google, IBM, Cisco, and Intel. Throughout her career, Nancy has gained a reputation for delivering big results in a culturally honest and purposeful way with hundreds of products deployed in over 80 countries worldwide. She consults globally on remote user research methods and development in emerging markets. Her past research examined design frameworks around the promotion, development, and implementation of global policies around user experiences in tech.
Nancy is currently developing the Douyon Signature Labs, Silicon Valley’s first social enterprise research institute focused on bridging the gap between human potential and tech innovations. She is proudly Haitian, has traveled to over 70 countries, and speaks fluent sarcasm. In her spare time, she lectures on user experience methodologies, dances in Carnivals all over the place, and lives her best life as written in her forthcoming book.
https://youtu.be/UZ18TxMMoAQ
Episode 6 – Lady Boss: Black Tech Founders
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome
Guest: Dr. Angelique Johnson (@thevissionaire)
Description: In this episode you’ll meet Dr. Angelique Johnson, Founder and CEO of MemStim. Learn what it’s like starting and running a company that combines computing and medicine to develop microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) for cochlear implants. She shares some of her strategies for pitching to investors and gaining business skills. She describes why she turned down funding from an investor because she kept in mind the golden rule: he who holds the gold makes the rules. We (of course) also talk about who Dr. Johnson is, including her chrome dipped nails and faux hawk hairstyle and the importance of expressing her individuality at work.
Dr. Angelique Johnson is CEO/founder of MEMStim LLC, a company that produces implantable electronics to treat neurological disorders. With a doctorate in Electrical Engineering from the University of Michigan, her work on microfabricated electrode arrays has resulted in several national and international patents, funding from the NSF and NIH, and a feature on the cover of Hearing Research. As an expert in Lean Startup Methodology, Dr. Johnson has educated several founders on how to build successful companies. She is an authority on innovation and entrepreneurship. Dr. Johnson has delivered a congressional briefing on Capitol Hill, served as a speaker for the eighth district of the Federal Reserve, and delivered several international talks. She has been featured on NBC Universal, National Public Radio (NPR), The Root news site, Louisville Insider, Business First, and other media outlets. Passionate about people as well as entrepreneurship, Dr. Johnson has led numerous outreach programs to promote tech careers to underrepresented minorities and women. One such program involved her traveling to Abu Dhabi to increase opportunities in STEM for Middle Eastern and North African Women. Dr. Johnson is CEO/Founder of Vissionaireum, an organization that promotes, trains and equips underrepresented entrepreneurs.
In this episode you’ll meet Dr. Angelique Johnson, Founder and CEO of MemStim. Learn what its like starting and running a company that combines computing and medicine to develop microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) for cochlear implants. She shares some of her strategies for pitching to investors and gaining business skills. She describes why she turned down funding from an investor because she kept in mind the golden rule: he who holds the gold makes the rules. We (of course) also talk about who Dr. Johnson is, including her chrome dipped nails and faux hawk hairstyle and the importance of expressing her individuality at work.
From math to CS, Jamie has experienced several transitions along her educational journey. In this episode, we dive deep into what it’s like to be a graduate student. Learn how her love for video games inspired her to pursue research.
Jamie believes programming is an art form. And as the developer of Lyrics 2 Code, she encapsulates her creative ability by coding small, impactful lyrics. Warning: this episode is filled with lots of laughs.
https://youtu.be/rFKE9g3ukZ0
Episode 5 – InstaBrand (Developing Your Personal Brand)
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome
Guest: Jamie Berger
Description: : From math to CS, Jamie has experienced several transitions along her educational journey. In this episode, we dive deep into what it’s like to be a graduate student. Learn how her love for video games inspired her to pursue research.
Jamie believes programming is an art form. And as the developer of Lyrics 2 Code, she encapsulates her creative ability by coding small, impactful lyrics. Warning: this episode is filled with lots of laughs.
Jamie Berger is a computer science Master’s student at Michigan Technological University. She is performing community-based research on Native American relationships with computing and how we can modify computer science curricula to harmonize with Native American traditional values. Jamie is known as @BergerWithASideofCode on Instagram for sharing anecdotal experiences of graduate school and posting Lyrics 2 Code. Lyrics 2 Code was created by Jamie to encourage more people of color to computing. She takes song lyrics from popular music, most commonly of the rap genre, and transforms them into snippets of computer code.
https://youtu.be/0yvD6N3fmpg
Episode 4 – Computer Science is for Everyone
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome
Guest: Dr. Jamika Burge
Description: : Roots. Rome. Religion. And Black Girl Magic. Listen in as Dr. Jamika Burge describes what mentorship means to her. She’s a self-described “big city girl with a country heart” who used the knowledge she gained from attending HBCUs to leverage tech as a vehicle for her success.
Dr. Jamika D. Burge is a Senior Manager at Capital One, where she oversees research curriculum development and internal/external outreach. At Capital One, she ideates and creates innovative user research curricula that empower designers, developers, and engineers to apply design thinking and human-centered design principles into their daily work, and beyond. She also engages with internal and external organizations in computing and design outreach activities. Prior to joining Capital One, Jamika served non-profit and government organizations, including as a consultant to the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) in the Information Innovation Office (I2O). She provided technical and management consult for innovative DARPA programs which were funded at over $70 million. Her research interests lie in human-computer interaction (HCI), specifically in the design of technologies that support a range of communication and interaction needs. She is active in computer science education and STEM preparedness efforts, providing expertise for a host of funded programs funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Computing Research Association (CRA), particularly those seeking to broaden participation in computer science. She also provides insight and research into the layers of intersectionality that affect black women and girls in computer science. Jamika holds a Ph.D. in computer science, with a focus on human-computer interaction (HCI) from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, where she was an IBM Research Fellow.
Dr. Burge is also Founder and Principal of Design & Technology Concepts (DTC), LLC, where she focuses on computer science design and education research. To date, DTC has consulted for Google, the National Center for Women in Information Technology (NCWIT), and the American Association of College & Universities (AAC&U), among other organizations. Her career has also included positions across academic (Spelman College and Howard University), non-profit (Smarter Balanced at UCLA), and industry (IBM Research) sectors.
To attend BlackComputeHer 2019, visit this link: https://blackcomputeher.org/blackcomputeher-2019/
https://youtu.be/0yvD6N3fmpg
Episode 4 - Computer Science is for EveryoneHosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy WaisomeGuest: Dr. Jamika BurgeDescription: : Roots. Rome. Religion. And Black Girl Magic. Listen in as Dr. Jamika Burge describes what mentorship means to her. She’s a self-described “big city girl with a country heart” who used the knowledge she gained from attending HBCUs to leverage tech as a vehicle for her success. Dr. Jamika D. Burge is a Senior Manager at Capital One, where she oversees research curriculum development and internal/external outreach. At Capital One, she ideates and creates innovative user research curricula that empower designers, developers, and engineers to apply design thinking and human-centered design principles into their daily work, and beyond. She also engages with internal and external organizations in computing and design outreach activities. Prior to joining Capital One, Jamika served non-profit and government organizations, including as a consultant to the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) in the Information Innovation Office (I2O). She provided technical and management consult for innovative DARPA programs which were funded at over $70 million. Her research interests lie in human-computer interaction (HCI), specifically in the design of technologies that support a range of communication and interaction needs. She is active in computer science education and STEM preparedness efforts, providing expertise for a host of funded programs funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Computing Research Association (CRA), particularly those seeking to broaden participation in computer science. She also provides insight and research into the layers of intersectionality that affect black women and girls in computer science. Jamika holds a Ph.D. in computer science, with a focus on human-computer interaction (HCI) from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, where she was an IBM Research Fellow. Dr. Burge is also Founder and Principal of Design & Technology Concepts (DTC), LLC, where she focuses on computer science design and education research. To date, DTC has consulted for Google, the National Center for Women in Information Technology (NCWIT), and the American Association of College & Universities (AAC&U), among other organizations. Her career has also included positions across academic (Spelman College and Howard University), non-profit (Smarter Balanced at UCLA), and industry (IBM Research) sectors.To attend BlackComputeHer 2019, visit this link: https://blackcomputeher.org/blackcomputeher-2019/
https://youtu.be/60R3-XGNBlM
Episode 3 - Why is This Even Important? Part 2: The Secret Life of the “Only” Magical Black GirlHosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy WaisomeNCWIT Contributor: Dr. JeffriAnne WilderGuest: Dr. Stacie LeSureDescription: True support for underrepresented science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and computing students in higher education is rare. To combat issues of access, equity, and inclusion, Dr. Stacie LeSure created Engineers 4 Equity. In this episode, we encourage you not to fake humble and take control of your personal story.Dr. Stacie LeSure earned a Ph.D. in Engineering Education at Utah State University where her doctoral research applied Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality frameworks to critically examine effective intervention strategies to reduce the negative consequences of Stereotype Threat. She also has a Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Spelman College. Dr. LeSure obtained the status of ABD (All But Defense) in Materials Science and Engineering at North Carolina State University. She is the founder and Executive Director of Engineers for Equity- a mission-driven organization focused on fostering equity and inclusion in engineering. Dr. LeSure also serves as Program Director and Senior Researcher at the Howard University Science, Engineering and Mathematics Center (HUSEM). At HUSEM she manages various research projects focused on the academic perceptions and persistence of students in STEM, particularly those students who are traditionally under-represented in STEM careers. Prior to joining Howard, she served as a Research Fellow at the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and a Post-doctoral researcher at the American Society for Engineering Education. Dr. LeSure worked as an engineer for over a decade before switching gears and devoting her time and talents to focus on pertinent issues including STEM education, equity and inclusion initiatives in education and the STEM workforce, and corporate development and training. She is also the founder and Executive Director of Engineers for Equity- a mission-driven organization focused on fostering equity and inclusion in engineering.
https://youtu.be/60R3-XGNBlM
Episode 3 – Why is This Even Important? Part 2: The Secret Life of the “Only” Magical Black Girl
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome
NCWIT Contributor: Dr. JeffriAnne Wilder
Guest: Dr. Stacie LeSure
Description: True support for underrepresented science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and computing students in higher education is rare. To combat issues of access, equity, and inclusion, Dr. Stacie LeSure created Engineers 4 Equity. In this episode, we encourage you not to fake humble and take control of your personal story.
Dr. Stacie LeSure earned a Ph.D. in Engineering Education at Utah State University where her doctoral research applied Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality frameworks to critically examine effective intervention strategies to reduce the negative consequences of Stereotype Threat. She also has a Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Spelman College. Dr. LeSure obtained the status of ABD (All But Defense) in Materials Science and Engineering at North Carolina State University.
She is the founder and Executive Director of Engineers for Equity- a mission-driven organization focused on fostering equity and inclusion in engineering. Dr. LeSure also serves as Program Director and Senior Researcher at the Howard University Science, Engineering and Mathematics Center (HUSEM). At HUSEM she manages various research projects focused on the academic perceptions and persistence of students in STEM, particularly those students who are traditionally under-represented in STEM careers.
Prior to joining Howard, she served as a Research Fellow at the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and a Post-doctoral researcher at the American Society for Engineering Education. Dr. LeSure worked as an engineer for over a decade before switching gears and devoting her time and talents to focus on pertinent issues including STEM education, equity and inclusion initiatives in education and the STEM workforce, and corporate development and training. She is also the founder and Executive Director of Engineers for Equity- a mission-driven organization focused on fostering equity and inclusion in engineering.
https://youtu.be/nXpnhy_9XqA
Episode 2 - Why is This Even Important? Part 1: I Can’t Fake Humble...
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome
NCWIT Contributor: Dr. JeffriAnne Wilder
Guest: Dr. Stacie LeSure
Description: True support for underrepresented science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and computing students in higher education is rare. To combat issues of access, equity, and inclusion, Dr. Stacie LeSure created Engineers 4 Equity. In this episode, we encourage you not to fake humble and take control of your personal story.
Dr. Stacie LeSure earned a Ph.D. in Engineering Education at Utah State University where her doctoral research applied Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality frameworks to critically examine effective intervention strategies to reduce the negative consequences of Stereotype Threat. She also has a Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Spelman College. Dr. LeSure obtained the status of ABD (All But Defense) in Materials Science and Engineering at North Carolina State University.
She is the founder and Executive Director of Engineers for Equity- a mission-driven organization focused on fostering equity and inclusion in engineering. Dr. LeSure also serves as Program Director and Senior Researcher at the Howard University Science, Engineering and Mathematics Center (HUSEM). At HUSEM she manages various research projects focused on the academic perceptions and persistence of students in STEM, particularly those students who are traditionally under-represented in STEM careers.
Prior to joining Howard, she served as a Research Fellow at the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and a Post-doctoral researcher at the American Society for Engineering Education. Dr. LeSure worked as an engineer for over a decade before switching gears and devoting her time and talents to focus on pertinent issues including STEM education, equity and inclusion initiatives in education and the STEM workforce, and corporate development and training. She is also the founder and Executive Director of Engineers for Equity- a mission-driven organization focused on fostering equity and inclusion in engineering.
https://youtu.be/nXpnhy_9XqA
Episode 2 – Why is This Even Important? Part 1: I Can’t Fake Humble…
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome
NCWIT Contributor: Dr. JeffriAnne Wilder
Guest: Dr. Stacie LeSure
Description: True support for underrepresented science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and computing students in higher education is rare. To combat issues of access, equity, and inclusion, Dr. Stacie LeSure created Engineers 4 Equity. In this episode, we encourage you not to fake humble and take control of your personal story.
Dr. Stacie LeSure earned a Ph.D. in Engineering Education at Utah State University where her doctoral research applied Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality frameworks to critically examine effective intervention strategies to reduce the negative consequences of Stereotype Threat. She also has a Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Spelman College. Dr. LeSure obtained the status of ABD (All But Defense) in Materials Science and Engineering at North Carolina State University.
She is the founder and Executive Director of Engineers for Equity- a mission-driven organization focused on fostering equity and inclusion in engineering. Dr. LeSure also serves as Program Director and Senior Researcher at the Howard University Science, Engineering and Mathematics Center (HUSEM). At HUSEM she manages various research projects focused on the academic perceptions and persistence of students in STEM, particularly those students who are traditionally under-represented in STEM careers.
Prior to joining Howard, she served as a Research Fellow at the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and a Post-doctoral researcher at the American Society for Engineering Education. Dr. LeSure worked as an engineer for over a decade before switching gears and devoting her time and talents to focus on pertinent issues including STEM education, equity and inclusion initiatives in education and the STEM workforce, and corporate development and training. She is also the founder and Executive Director of Engineers for Equity- a mission-driven organization focused on fostering equity and inclusion in engineering.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0k0l9NrAhYU
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome
NCWIT Contributor: Dr. JeffriAnne Wilder
Black women were pioneers in various fields of computing, but it’s often hard to find their stories, even today. This episode introduces Modern Figures Podcast and begins the story of how we will elevate the voices of Black women in computing to inspire the next generation of the advanced technology workforce.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0k0l9NrAhYU
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome
NCWIT Contributor: Dr. JeffriAnne Wilder
Black women were pioneers in various fields of computing, but it’s often hard to find their stories, even today. This episode introduces Modern Figures Podcast and begins the story of how we will elevate the voices of Black women in computing to inspire the next generation of the advanced technology workforce.
From biology to biomedical research, and ultimately high performance computing, Dr. Raquell Holmes has had a very “circuitous” journey.
In college, she had professors who weren’t able to help foster her interest in mathematics. But one professor gave her the support she needed, by giving her a window into the life of research. It wasn’t until she was working on her graduate school research that she became interested in the world of computing. Today, her work of bringing computing to teachers, schools, and other scientists is done through her nonprofit organization, ImprovScience, where she invites people to play at work through improvisation.
Tune in as Dr. Holmes explains many aspects of her identity which were formed in her youth that influences who she is today. Our favorite quote from this episode podcast is related to the importance of finding community. She stated “I get to be Black the way I’m black,” and we feel that!
Episode 10 – Code[Dot].play();
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome
Guest: Dr. Raquell Holmes (@raquellholmes) of improvScience and cestemer
Description: From biology to biomedical research, and ultimately high performance computing, Dr. Raquell Holmes has had a very “circuitous” journey.
In college, she had professors who weren’t able to help foster her interest in mathematics. But one professor gave her the support she needed, by giving her a window into the life of research. It wasn’t until she was working on her graduate school research that she became interested in the world of computing. Today, her work of bringing computing to teachers, schools, and other scientists is done through her nonprofit organization, ImprovScience, where she invites people to play at work through improvisation.
Tune in as Dr. Holmes explains many aspects of her identity which were formed in her youth that influences who she is today. Our favorite quote from this episode podcast is related to the importance of finding community. She stated “I get to be Black the way I’m Black,” and we feel that!
Bio: Dr. Raquell Holmes, founder of improvscience, provides leadership development to scientific and technical organizations invested in the development of an engaged, diverse and collaborative workforce. Dr. Holmes designs programs that integrate performance and emotional intelligence to advance communication, inclusion, and discovery across scientific disciplines and cultures.
Dr. Holmes has unique abilities in fostering communication within scientifically diverse communities. Her expertise and services are invaluable to team building. Dr. Holmes founded improvscience where she uses performance to build community and expand relational and co-creative capacities. She also fosters a positive and creative social environment among professionals.
Dr. Holmes is working to change the relationship of science to the world, locally and globally. She is particularly interested in changing the relationship of science and scientists to poor communities and communities of color. Dr. Holmes has the ability to bring people together to create an environment for growth and development. She leads seminars and workshops, develops conferences, designs on-site professional development sessions, and coaches. She uses multiple platforms and locations including: improvscience, Life Performance Coaching, East Side Institute, All Stars UX, and Arizona State University.
Dr. Holmes works with individuals and companies who invest in professional growth as a critical component for engagement, leadership and building environments for excellence.
Accomplishments:
Dr. Holmes is a computational cell biologist who got her Ph.D. from Tufts Biomedical School in Boston. She stayed in the Boston area for her postdoctoral training at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School. Dr. Holmes then joined Boston University where she became a Research Assistant Professor. She authored the book Cell Biologist’s Guide to Modeling and Bioinformatics. She is an East Side Institute Associate in New York and adjunct professor at Arizona State University.
Dr. Holmes is the founder and director of improvscience, a consulting company that has worked with over 3000 scientists across the country at Harvard Medical School, University of California Berkeley, UC San Francisco, Department of Energy, Boston University, University of Connecticut Health Center, National Institutes of Health, American Chemical Society and the American Meteorological Society.
With parents in computing, a career in CS was a natural fit for Dr. Day. Math was her favorite subject because she could check her answers. She was developing websites in middle school and by the time she reached HS she knew she wanted to attain a PhD. Dr. Day is the first woman to receive a PhD from NCA&T.
In this episode, you’ll learn how faith, determination, and hard work are what she believes led to her success. And she shares the importance of having multiple mentors, which may even include your parents.
Episode 9 – Making History Every Day: Privacy, Security, and Authorship
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome
Guest: Dr. Siobahn Day (@drsiobahncday) [http://www.siobahncday.com]
Description: With parents in computing, a career in CS was a natural fit for Dr. Day. Math was her favorite subject because she could check her answers. She was developing websites in middle school and by the time she reached HS she knew she wanted to attain a PhD. Dr. Day is the first woman to receive a PhD in Computer Science from NCA&T.
In this episode, you’ll learn how faith, determination, and hard work are what she believes led to her success. And she shares the importance of having multiple mentors, which may even include your parents.
Bio: Siobahn received her BS in Computer Science from Winston-Salem State University in 2005, her master’s degree in Information Science from North Carolina Central University in 2009, and in 2018 obtained her master’s and doctorate of philosophy degree in Computer Science from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Siobahn is the first female Computer Science Ph.D. graduate from the department.
She is a Lecturer for the Department of Computer Science at The University of North Carolina at Greensboro and an Adjunct Assistant Professor for the Department of Computer Science at North Carolina A&T State University. Prior to this, she served as an Adjunct Instructor at several colleges and universities where she taught an array of courses in Computer Science. She has delivered numerous presentations on a variety of Technology topics at national and regional conferences.
Siobahn is also an entrepreneur. She created Dreams Creative Group in April 2015 with one goal in mind – to elevate art. Dreams Creative Group offers unique web and graphic design solutions to individuals and institutions. Siobahn and her team of employees work tirelessly to make their clients’ dreams reality.
She is a member of several associations including The Beta Iota Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Junior League of Greensboro, Winston Salem State University National Alumni Association (Life Member), and North Carolina Central University National Alumni Association (Life Member). She also serves as a volunteer for various organizations including Boy Scouts of America, FIRST North Carolina, Girl Scouts of America, and ‘Black Girls Code’, which introduces Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics skills to African American girls.
?Humanities in technology and culture in research. Users in design and training the teacher. Branding herself for conscious customizing. These are a few of Nancy’s favorite things. ? In this episode, Nancy schools us on the importance of inclusive UX (user experience) design and adapting technology to have a conscience. It’s impossible to design for a population that you don’t seek to understand, and she has made this her brand.
Episode 8 – Never Hustle Backwards (Part 2)
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome
Guest: Nancy Douyon (@therealnancydouyon)
Description: Humanities in technology and culture in research. Users in design and training the teacher. Branding herself for conscious customizing. These are a few of Nancy’s favorite things. In the sequel to her previous episode, Nancy schools us on the importance of inclusive UX (user experience) design and adapting technology to have a conscience. It’s impossible to design for a population that you don’t seek to understand, and she has made this her brand.
Bio: Nancy Douyon is a trailblazer in human experience design with over 15 years of industry experience building scalable user research platforms and revitalizing user interfaces at leading companies such as Uber, Google, IBM, Cisco, and Intel. Throughout her career, Nancy has gained a reputation for delivering big results in a culturally honest and purposeful way with hundreds of products deployed in over 80 countries worldwide. She consults globally on remote user research methods and development in emerging markets. Her past research examined design frameworks around the promotion, development, and implementation of global policies around user experiences in tech.
Nancy is currently developing the Douyon Signature Labs, Silicon Valley’s first social enterprise research institute focused on bridging the gap between human potential and tech innovations. She is proudly Haitian, has traveled to over 70 countries, and speaks fluent sarcasm. In her spare time, she lectures on user experience methodologies, dances in Carnivals all over the place, and lives her best life as written in her forthcoming book.
Listen in as Nancy Douyon, The Missy Elliot of Technology, gives insight into how her inquisitive nature opened doors. Nancy attributes much of her success to “hood logic” and not knowing any better. But truth be told, Nancy has a tenacious, never give up attitude that stems back to her Caribbean roots. We loved her “superhero origin story” so much, that this episode is just her intro!
Episode 7 – All Work and All Play
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome
Guest: Nancy Douyon (@therealnancydouyon)
Description: Listen in as Nancy Douyon, The Missy Elliot of Technology, gives insight into how her inquisitive nature opened doors. Nancy attributes much of her success to “hood logic” and not knowing any better. But truth be told, Nancy has a tenacious, never give up attitude that stems back to her Caribbean roots. We loved her “superhero origin story” so much, that this episode is just her intro!
Bio: Nancy Douyon is a trailblazer in human experience design with over 15 years of industry experience building scalable user research platforms and revitalizing user interfaces at leading companies such as Uber, Google, IBM, Cisco, and Intel. Throughout her career, Nancy has gained a reputation for delivering big results in a culturally honest and purposeful way with hundreds of products deployed in over 80 countries worldwide. She consults globally on remote user research methods and development in emerging markets. Her past research examined design frameworks around the promotion, development, and implementation of global policies around user experiences in tech.
Nancy is currently developing the Douyon Signature Labs, Silicon Valley’s first social enterprise research institute focused on bridging the gap between human potential and tech innovations. She is proudly Haitian, has traveled to over 70 countries, and speaks fluent sarcasm. In her spare time, she lectures on user experience methodologies, dances in Carnivals all over the place, and lives her best life as written in her forthcoming book.
Episode 6 – Lady Boss: Black Tech Founders
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome
Guest: Dr. Angelique Johnson (@thevissionaire)
Description: In this episode you’ll meet Dr. Angelique Johnson, Founder and CEO of MemStim. Learn what it’s like starting and running a company that combines computing and medicine to develop microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) for cochlear implants. She shares some of her strategies for pitching to investors and gaining business skills. She describes why she turned down funding from an investor because she kept in mind the golden rule: he who holds the gold makes the rules. We (of course) also talk about who Dr. Johnson is, including her chrome dipped nails and faux hawk hairstyle and the importance of expressing her individuality at work.
Dr. Angelique Johnson is CEO/founder of MEMStim LLC, a company that produces implantable electronics to treat neurological disorders. With a doctorate in Electrical Engineering from the University of Michigan, her work on microfabricated electrode arrays has resulted in several national and international patents, funding from the NSF and NIH, and a feature on the cover of Hearing Research. As an expert in Lean Startup Methodology, Dr. Johnson has educated several founders on how to build successful companies. She is an authority on innovation and entrepreneurship. Dr. Johnson has delivered a congressional briefing on Capitol Hill, served as a speaker for the eighth district of the Federal Reserve, and delivered several international talks. She has been featured on NBC Universal, National Public Radio (NPR), The Root news site, Louisville Insider, Business First, and other media outlets. Passionate about people as well as entrepreneurship, Dr. Johnson has led numerous outreach programs to promote tech careers to underrepresented minorities and women. One such program involved her traveling to Abu Dhabi to increase opportunities in STEM for Middle Eastern and North African Women. Dr. Johnson is CEO/Founder of Vissionaireum, an organization that promotes, trains and equips underrepresented entrepreneurs.
In this episode you’ll meet Dr. Angelique Johnson, Founder and CEO of MemStim. Learn what its like starting and running a company that combines computing and medicine to develop microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) for cochlear implants. She shares some of her strategies for pitching to investors and gaining business skills. She describes why she turned down funding from an investor because she kept in mind the golden rule: he who holds the gold makes the rules. We (of course) also talk about who Dr. Johnson is, including her chrome dipped nails and faux hawk hairstyle and the importance of expressing her individuality at work.
From math to CS, Jamie has experienced several transitions along her educational journey. In this episode, we dive deep into what it’s like to be a graduate student. Learn how her love for video games inspired her to pursue research.
Jamie believes programming is an art form. And as the developer of Lyrics 2 Code, she encapsulates her creative ability by coding small, impactful lyrics. Warning: this episode is filled with lots of laughs.
Episode 5 – InstaBrand (Developing Your Personal Brand)
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome
Guest: Jamie Berger
Description: : From math to CS, Jamie has experienced several transitions along her educational journey. In this episode, we dive deep into what it’s like to be a graduate student. Learn how her love for video games inspired her to pursue research.
Jamie believes programming is an art form. And as the developer of Lyrics 2 Code, she encapsulates her creative ability by coding small, impactful lyrics. Warning: this episode is filled with lots of laughs.
Jamie Berger is a computer science Master’s student at Michigan Technological University. She is performing community-based research on Native American relationships with computing and how we can modify computer science curricula to harmonize with Native American traditional values. Jamie is known as @BergerWithASideofCode on Instagram for sharing anecdotal experiences of graduate school and posting Lyrics 2 Code. Lyrics 2 Code was created by Jamie to encourage more people of color to computing. She takes song lyrics from popular music, most commonly of the rap genre, and transforms them into snippets of computer code.
Episode 4 – Computer Science is for Everyone
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome
Guest: Dr. Jamika Burge
Description: : Roots. Rome. Religion. And Black Girl Magic. Listen in as Dr. Jamika Burge describes what mentorship means to her. She’s a self-described “big city girl with a country heart” who used the knowledge she gained from attending HBCUs to leverage tech as a vehicle for her success.
Dr. Jamika D. Burge is a Senior Manager at Capital One, where she oversees research curriculum development and internal/external outreach. At Capital One, she ideates and creates innovative user research curricula that empower designers, developers, and engineers to apply design thinking and human-centered design principles into their daily work, and beyond. She also engages with internal and external organizations in computing and design outreach activities. Prior to joining Capital One, Jamika served non-profit and government organizations, including as a consultant to the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) in the Information Innovation Office (I2O). She provided technical and management consult for innovative DARPA programs which were funded at over $70 million. Her research interests lie in human-computer interaction (HCI), specifically in the design of technologies that support a range of communication and interaction needs. She is active in computer science education and STEM preparedness efforts, providing expertise for a host of funded programs funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Computing Research Association (CRA), particularly those seeking to broaden participation in computer science. She also provides insight and research into the layers of intersectionality that affect black women and girls in computer science. Jamika holds a Ph.D. in computer science, with a focus on human-computer interaction (HCI) from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, where she was an IBM Research Fellow.
Dr. Burge is also Founder and Principal of Design & Technology Concepts (DTC), LLC, where she focuses on computer science design and education research. To date, DTC has consulted for Google, the National Center for Women in Information Technology (NCWIT), and the American Association of College & Universities (AAC&U), among other organizations. Her career has also included positions across academic (Spelman College and Howard University), non-profit (Smarter Balanced at UCLA), and industry (IBM Research) sectors.
To attend BlackComputeHer 2019, visit this link: https://blackcomputeher.org/blackcomputeher-2019/
Episode 4 - Computer Science is for EveryoneHosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy WaisomeGuest: Dr. Jamika BurgeDescription: : Roots. Rome. Religion. And Black Girl Magic. Listen in as Dr. Jamika Burge describes what mentorship means to her. She’s a self-described “big city girl with a country heart” who used the knowledge she gained from attending HBCUs to leverage tech as a vehicle for her success. Dr. Jamika D. Burge is a Senior Manager at Capital One, where she oversees research curriculum development and internal/external outreach. At Capital One, she ideates and creates innovative user research curricula that empower designers, developers, and engineers to apply design thinking and human-centered design principles into their daily work, and beyond. She also engages with internal and external organizations in computing and design outreach activities. Prior to joining Capital One, Jamika served non-profit and government organizations, including as a consultant to the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) in the Information Innovation Office (I2O). She provided technical and management consult for innovative DARPA programs which were funded at over $70 million. Her research interests lie in human-computer interaction (HCI), specifically in the design of technologies that support a range of communication and interaction needs. She is active in computer science education and STEM preparedness efforts, providing expertise for a host of funded programs funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Computing Research Association (CRA), particularly those seeking to broaden participation in computer science. She also provides insight and research into the layers of intersectionality that affect black women and girls in computer science. Jamika holds a Ph.D. in computer science, with a focus on human-computer interaction (HCI) from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, where she was an IBM Research Fellow. Dr. Burge is also Founder and Principal of Design & Technology Concepts (DTC), LLC, where she focuses on computer science design and education research. To date, DTC has consulted for Google, the National Center for Women in Information Technology (NCWIT), and the American Association of College & Universities (AAC&U), among other organizations. Her career has also included positions across academic (Spelman College and Howard University), non-profit (Smarter Balanced at UCLA), and industry (IBM Research) sectors.To attend BlackComputeHer 2019, visit this link: https://blackcomputeher.org/blackcomputeher-2019/
Episode 3 – Why is This Even Important? Part 2: The Secret Life of the “Only” Magical Black Girl
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome
NCWIT Contributor: Dr. JeffriAnne Wilder
Guest: Dr. Stacie LeSure
Description: True support for underrepresented science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and computing students in higher education is rare. To combat issues of access, equity, and inclusion, Dr. Stacie LeSure created Engineers 4 Equity. In this episode, we encourage you not to fake humble and take control of your personal story.
Dr. Stacie LeSure earned a Ph.D. in Engineering Education at Utah State University where her doctoral research applied Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality frameworks to critically examine effective intervention strategies to reduce the negative consequences of Stereotype Threat. She also has a Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Spelman College. Dr. LeSure obtained the status of ABD (All But Defense) in Materials Science and Engineering at North Carolina State University.
She is the founder and Executive Director of Engineers for Equity- a mission-driven organization focused on fostering equity and inclusion in engineering. Dr. LeSure also serves as Program Director and Senior Researcher at the Howard University Science, Engineering and Mathematics Center (HUSEM). At HUSEM she manages various research projects focused on the academic perceptions and persistence of students in STEM, particularly those students who are traditionally under-represented in STEM careers.
Prior to joining Howard, she served as a Research Fellow at the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and a Post-doctoral researcher at the American Society for Engineering Education. Dr. LeSure worked as an engineer for over a decade before switching gears and devoting her time and talents to focus on pertinent issues including STEM education, equity and inclusion initiatives in education and the STEM workforce, and corporate development and training. She is also the founder and Executive Director of Engineers for Equity- a mission-driven organization focused on fostering equity and inclusion in engineering.
Episode 3 - Why is This Even Important? Part 2: The Secret Life of the “Only” Magical Black GirlHosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy WaisomeNCWIT Contributor: Dr. JeffriAnne WilderGuest: Dr. Stacie LeSureDescription: True support for underrepresented science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and computing students in higher education is rare. To combat issues of access, equity, and inclusion, Dr. Stacie LeSure created Engineers 4 Equity. In this episode, we encourage you not to fake humble and take control of your personal story.Dr. Stacie LeSure earned a Ph.D. in Engineering Education at Utah State University where her doctoral research applied Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality frameworks to critically examine effective intervention strategies to reduce the negative consequences of Stereotype Threat. She also has a Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Spelman College. Dr. LeSure obtained the status of ABD (All But Defense) in Materials Science and Engineering at North Carolina State University. She is the founder and Executive Director of Engineers for Equity- a mission-driven organization focused on fostering equity and inclusion in engineering. Dr. LeSure also serves as Program Director and Senior Researcher at the Howard University Science, Engineering and Mathematics Center (HUSEM). At HUSEM she manages various research projects focused on the academic perceptions and persistence of students in STEM, particularly those students who are traditionally under-represented in STEM careers. Prior to joining Howard, she served as a Research Fellow at the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and a Post-doctoral researcher at the American Society for Engineering Education. Dr. LeSure worked as an engineer for over a decade before switching gears and devoting her time and talents to focus on pertinent issues including STEM education, equity and inclusion initiatives in education and the STEM workforce, and corporate development and training. She is also the founder and Executive Director of Engineers for Equity- a mission-driven organization focused on fostering equity and inclusion in engineering.
Episode 2 – Why is This Even Important? Part 1: I Can’t Fake Humble…
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome
NCWIT Contributor: Dr. JeffriAnne Wilder
Guest: Dr. Stacie LeSure
Description: True support for underrepresented science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and computing students in higher education is rare. To combat issues of access, equity, and inclusion, Dr. Stacie LeSure created Engineers 4 Equity. In this episode, we encourage you not to fake humble and take control of your personal story.
Dr. Stacie LeSure earned a Ph.D. in Engineering Education at Utah State University where her doctoral research applied Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality frameworks to critically examine effective intervention strategies to reduce the negative consequences of Stereotype Threat. She also has a Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Spelman College. Dr. LeSure obtained the status of ABD (All But Defense) in Materials Science and Engineering at North Carolina State University.
She is the founder and Executive Director of Engineers for Equity- a mission-driven organization focused on fostering equity and inclusion in engineering. Dr. LeSure also serves as Program Director and Senior Researcher at the Howard University Science, Engineering and Mathematics Center (HUSEM). At HUSEM she manages various research projects focused on the academic perceptions and persistence of students in STEM, particularly those students who are traditionally under-represented in STEM careers.
Prior to joining Howard, she served as a Research Fellow at the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and a Post-doctoral researcher at the American Society for Engineering Education. Dr. LeSure worked as an engineer for over a decade before switching gears and devoting her time and talents to focus on pertinent issues including STEM education, equity and inclusion initiatives in education and the STEM workforce, and corporate development and training. She is also the founder and Executive Director of Engineers for Equity- a mission-driven organization focused on fostering equity and inclusion in engineering.
Episode 2 - Why is This Even Important? Part 1: I Can’t Fake Humble...Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy WaisomeNCWIT Contributor: Dr. JeffriAnne WilderGuest: Dr. Stacie LeSureDescription: True support for underrepresented science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and computing students in higher education is rare. To combat issues of access, equity, and inclusion, Dr. Stacie LeSure created Engineers 4 Equity. In this episode, we encourage you not to fake humble and take control of your personal story.Dr. Stacie LeSure earned a Ph.D. in Engineering Education at Utah State University where her doctoral research applied Critical Race Theory and Intersectionality frameworks to critically examine effective intervention strategies to reduce the negative consequences of Stereotype Threat. She also has a Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Spelman College. Dr. LeSure obtained the status of ABD (All But Defense) in Materials Science and Engineering at North Carolina State University. She is the founder and Executive Director of Engineers for Equity- a mission-driven organization focused on fostering equity and inclusion in engineering. Dr. LeSure also serves as Program Director and Senior Researcher at the Howard University Science, Engineering and Mathematics Center (HUSEM). At HUSEM she manages various research projects focused on the academic perceptions and persistence of students in STEM, particularly those students who are traditionally under-represented in STEM careers. Prior to joining Howard, she served as a Research Fellow at the American Association of University Women (AAUW) and a Post-doctoral researcher at the American Society for Engineering Education. Dr. LeSure worked as an engineer for over a decade before switching gears and devoting her time and talents to focus on pertinent issues including STEM education, equity and inclusion initiatives in education and the STEM workforce, and corporate development and training. She is also the founder and Executive Director of Engineers for Equity- a mission-driven organization focused on fostering equity and inclusion in engineering.
Hosts: Dr. Kyla McMullen and Dr. Jeremy Waisome NCWIT Contributor: Dr. JeffriAnne Wilder Black women were pioneers in various fields of computing, but it’s often hard to find their stories, even today. This episode introduces Modern Figures Podcast and begins the story of how we will elevate the voices of Black women in computing to inspire the next generation of the advanced technology workforce.