On Wednesday, February 23rd, 2022, the Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering (JSNN) hosted Dr. Pamela Leggett-Robinson, a recognized expert and consultant on matters of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). She presented a public seminar titled “Broadening Participation & Decreasing the STEM Opportunity Gap: An Investment in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and the Local Community”. The presentation focused on strategies to build capacity for ways in which individuals can contribute to decreasing the STEM opportunity gap and broaden participation through intentional investments in diverse talent, equitable and inclusive practices, and the local community. Dr. Leggett-Robinson discussed how broadening participation and decreasing the opportunity gap for historically marginalized groups is paramount to the larger social standing and progress of technological innovation, research productivity, and community scientific literacy. In addition to the seminar, meetings with several JSNN faculty, and lunch with students, a “Fireside Chat” hosted by JSNN graduate student Bukola Adesanmi was held. The Fireside Chat conversation focused on Dr. Leggett-Robinson’s life experiences, her career path, and tips for success in graduate school.

Dr. Leggett-Robinson’s visit was hosted by JSNN as a Black History Month (BHM) event. BHM is a commemoration held in the U.S. since 1970 and it is a time to remember the accomplishments of the African American community and to reflect on the trials and tribulations faced by many of its members.

Dr. Leggett-Robinson presenting her seminar in the Auditorium

and to a virtual audience accessing it online through Zoom.

Dr. Leggett-Robinson’s fireside chat with JSNN graduate students.

The Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering (JSNN) is an academic collaboration between North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NC A&T) and The University of North Carolina Greensboro (UNC Greensboro). A $56.3 million, 105,000 square foot state-of-the-art science and engineering research facility, JSNN builds on the strengths of each institution to offer innovative, transdisciplinary graduate programs in emerging areas of nanoscience and nanoengineering.