by Vanessa De La Rosa
The Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) held their 42nd Annual Conference October 29–31, 2015, in Washington, DC. The conference attracted over 4,000 undergraduates, graduate students, and professionals in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. The conference theme was “Diversity in STEM” and this was echoed throughout all of the conference programming that included scientific presentations, professional development sessions, cultural activities, and featured keynotes from prominent leaders in STEM across academia, government, policy, and industry.
Pictured above are Vanessa De La Rosa (left) and Ofelia Olivero (right) at the SOT Booth.
The Society of Toxicology was among the exhibitors at this meeting with a booth organized by the Committee on Diversity Initiatives (CDI). At the SOT booth, members including Vanessa De La Rosa, Noe Galvan, Adrian Nanez, Ofelia Olivero, and Jennifer Rayner, as well as CDI Staff Liaison Rachel Woodson, discussed research interests and careers paths in toxicology with attendees. Students learned about the many undergraduate opportunities available through SOT, such as the Undergraduate Diversity Program and the option to become an SOT Undergraduate Student Affiliate.
SOT members also were featured speakers in the session entitled “Pick Your Poison! Careers in Toxicology.” Session chairs Drs. De La Rosa and Galvan led a panel exploring career opportunities in the field of toxicology, strategies for pursuing a successful career in toxicology, and the need for diversity in the field of toxicology.