More than just scientists: they’re STEMebrities

Stories for, by and about Women in Science

Written by Erica Hersh

Tuesday, 31 May 2011

In March, UTM asked you to share stories about your favorite STEMebrities- female scientists, teachers, or even fictional characters involved in science who you believe should be considered celebrities for their work and their ability to inspire others. From Abby Scuito of the t.v. show NCIS to Dr. Shirley Raps at Hunter College, our readers picked a wide range of women who inspire them. Here are some themes that came up throughout the nominations:

Teaching the Next Generation
Although teaching elementary school through high school is generally considered a “female” profession, women tend to be noticeably absent at the professorial level--not so with our STEMebrities. From Dr. Shirley Raps at Hunter College to Dr. Pamela Brown at New York City College of Technology to Dr. Barabara McClintock at the University of Missouri, these STEMebrities made it part of their priorities to mentor and teach the younger generation of both women and men, in order to advance scientific research and make sure everyone can achieve their STEM goals.

Don’t Limit Yourself
If research and teaching weren’t enough, STEMebrities pursue other interests outside the lab or the classroom. Dr. Rita Charon, for example, has a PhD in English Literature, and has written and edited books and articles about the field of narrative medicine. Actress Natalie Portman went from psychology research at Harvard to winning an Academy Award. Primatologist Dr. Dian Fossey wrote a book about her research on gorillas, which was eventually made into a movie starring Sigourney Weaver. Scientific research may take a lot of time and energy, but these STEMebrities show us the importance of making time for other passions.

Above and Beyond
STEMebrities are inspiring not just because of their research or passions, but because of their willingness to do whatever it takes to achieve their goals and make sure others can achieve their own. Dr. Pamela Brown, for example, has secured millions of dollars in government and NSF grants to help undergraduates carry out research. Dr. Dian Fossey actually went into gorilla habitats to destroy poachers’ traps, and while we can’t advocate our readers taking that approach, the hands-on, “whatever it takes” mentality of STEMebrities can be a lesson to all.

Although our event has ended, tell us about a STEMebrity who inspires you in our comments section below or submit your own My Favorite STEMebrity story in the “Your Stories” section of our site. And stay tuned for our next event “Summer Science Stories 2011!”