Introducing Dr. Katie Bowden Tell us what do you do? ย I am the serology section lead in the Parasitic Diseases Branch at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). I oversee 4 employees within a section that performs three different types of blood tests to diagnose 14 different parasitic diseases. Since we work on…
The Nerdy CEO presents: Women in STEM Series Introducing Professor Dr. Chanelle Adams-Griffin
Meet Dr. Chanelle Adams-Griffin
Meet Dr. Chanelle Adams-Griffin
Tell us what do you do?ย
I am an educator in several regards, but currently hold a faculty position as a Professional Educator of Biology at Western New England University in Springfield, MA.
What is your educational background?ย
I ย am a first time college graduate in my family. ย I have a B.S. in Biology from Stillman College, Tuscaloosa, AL., a M.S. in Microbiology from the University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, and a PhD in Food Microbiology from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
Why a STEM major?ย
Growing up, the measure of success in my neighborhood was becoming a doctor or a lawyer. I was always good at math, but science came naturally (I never had to study or work hard at it), so seeing that I was interested in medicine and how it is used to help heal people, I thought Iโd give Biology a try.
Can you briefly explain the importance of a higher education?ย
I live by the mantra that the one thing no one can ever take from you is your education (knowledge). They can cast you into a box based on your life experiences, and doubt your abilities, but when you can back things with concrete evidence noting will refute it.
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Heroes: Who else deserves credit and has played a meaningful role in your life and/or career?
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Aside from family, Dr. Lee A. Aggison, Jr. – the first person to introduce me to independent laboratory research and build my self-confidence. Dr. Ruth A. Washington, wife of Dr. Aggison. – Success personified is what I call her. When I stepped on the campus of Stillman College she was what I envisioned myself to be…. A black female excelling in a male dominated field.
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Skills from childhood: What are some important skill-sets to develop that you think is necessary to have in life??
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Learn to fail; it’s OK โ I came across a sign one day which read: FAIL = First Attempt In Learning. Thereโs no way you can know everything about something thatโs being introduced for the first time. Donโt exhaust your energy trying to please others. This is YOUR life, so go after whatever it is that YOU desire. Donโt just wish for it but work for it! โIf you want something youโve never had. You must be willing to do something youโve never done.โ – Unknown
Staying Motivated: How do you stay motivated when times get tough?ย
I remember those who have helped me get to where I am today. In me asking how can I ever repay you, the only response Iโve ever received is to pay it forward. Make sure you help someone in every way imaginable to attain their highest potential.
What is your definition of success?
During graduate school, I had a hand made sign on my desk: Success is 99% failure. So, success to me is commitment, perseverance, determination. It is not merely a measure of you โmaking itโ – which is what I thought as a child, but the continual pursuit of being better. Having the wherewithal to know that success is an evolutionary process whose path changes as you grow.
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Any major accomplishments you would like to share?
My education has opened doors for me in every area of employment; Iโve worked in Industry, government and academia.
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If you could tell your younger self ONE thing, what would it be?
You donโt have to carry the world on your shoulders, but your contributions to society will be impactful!
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One piece of advice you would give to up and coming aspiring students majoring in STEM?
Trust the process!
This blog post is dedicated to highlighting some amazing women in STEM who are trailblazers in their respective professions.ย From scientists, to professors, and biomedical engineers, these women bring in fresh perspectives, talent, and creativity.ย They continue to break barriers even till this day, which serves as a reminder that women and girls play a critical role in science and technology.
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