Pleasant greetings, San Diego!
If you celebrated it, I hope you had a wonderful Valentine’s Day and the chance to spend time with loved ones. I’d also like to extend an invitation to our next social event on Thursday, April 4th. “Tap Into Beer Chemistry with White Labs” is a delight to look forward to, as we will tour the brilliant brewing facilities at White Labs, taste some of their original brews, and connect with each other through a social hour with food provided. If you’ve been wanting an opportunity to meet others with a passion for beer, chemistry, or both, chatting over a glass at White Labs is what I’d call a perfect way to achieve that.
With the conclusion of February and Black History Month, I’d like to reflect on the profound impact of the contributions made by Black individuals throughout history, particularly within the realm of science. Black History Month is an important reminder that we must continue to recognize the pivotal role Black scientists have played in shaping our understanding of the world, and also serves as a reminder of the struggles, triumphs, and perseverance of those who have faced adversity and discrimination in pursuit of knowledge and innovation.
Looking ahead to March, I eagerly anticipate the commencement of Women’s History Month, a time to honor the achievements and contributions of women across various fields. This presents us with an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the remarkable accomplishments of women in science, including the invaluable contributions of Black women chemists.
Throughout history, Black women chemists have made significant strides in advancing scientific knowledge and breaking down barriers in a predominantly male and often racially biased field. Their dedication, intellect, and perseverance have paved the way for future generations of scientists, regardless of gender or ethnicity. As a Black young woman myself who is grounding her place in science, I hold an internal sense of responsibility to pass on the contributions of those Black women who persevered in shaping their surroundings to propel their success.
Among the many influential Black women chemists, several names stand out for their groundbreaking work and enduring legacy, such as:
Dr. Marie Maynard Daly, the first African American woman to receive a Ph.D. in chemistry in the United States, whose research on the effects of cholesterol paved the way for advancements in cardiovascular health.
Dr. Alice Ball, whose most notable achievement was the development of the “Ball Method,” a revolutionary treatment for leprosy that was not accredited to her name until many years after her unfortunate, early passing.
Dr. Jewel Plummer Cobb, a distinguished cancer researcher and cell biologist, who made significant contributions to our understanding of the mechanisms underlying tumor growth and metastasis. Her groundbreaking research has had a profound impact on the development of cancer treatments and therapies.
As we celebrate the achievements of these remarkable women and countless others, let us also reaffirm our commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable scientific community. Together, let us continue to champion diversity, equity, and inclusion in science, ensuring that the next generation of scientists is as diverse and vibrant as the world we seek to understand.
Warm regards,
Christina Vialva