Outreach

Educational Outreach

As a scientist, I view it as my duty to increase scientific literacy in the communities we occupy. Throughout my academic career I have participated in or created programs which showcase nature through a STEM lens. I give hands-on demonstrations in an effort to move past memorizing, providing first-person experience into how we learn about natural processes. I aim to increase the flow of diverse minds into STEM careers through direct engagement. 

A free and immersive program where rising 7th and 8th graders engage in hands-on outdoor exploration and field-experiments led by experts within Harvard’s Arnold Arboretum. I served as the principal scientist for the pilot program.

 Interactive Children's Education

Targeted STEM Lessons

I combine STEM theory with hands-on experiences to increase interest and retention across age-groups. I have created several "pop-up science" experiences that leverage my own pets or laboratory access to showcase how scientists explore our natural world. 

Earth_Day.MOV

Destiny Traveling Science Center

The Destiny traveling science learning program is a science education outreach initiative of the Science Center at UNC that serves pre-college teachers and students across North Carolina. We develop and lead science demonstrations across low-income regions of NC. 


During my childhood, as a recent immigrant to NC, I participated in this program, igniting my own STEM interest in elementary school. During my graduate work, I participated as a volunteer hoping to inspire others similarly. 

Nature in the City

Research shows a socioeconomic disparity in access to nature and outdoor recreation. I coordinate with public schools and community organizations to expose historically marginalized groups to local natural resources. Through exposing students to our shared natural history I hope to increase a sense of belonging within the natural sciences. 

"We, this people, on this wayward, floating body

Created on this earth, of this earth

Have the power to fashion for this earth

A climate where every man and every woman

Can live freely without sanctimonious piety

Without crippling fear"

M. Angelou