4. How can we prepare the next generation of STEM Leaders with Dr. Maya P. Byfield

Today’s interview is with Dr. Maya Patrice Byfield. Dr. Maya Byfield is the daughter of Jamaican parents born in Queens, New York. After graduating from Oakwood University with a BS in Biology, Dr. Byfield received her MS in Biomedical Sciences and Ph.D. in Molecular Pharmacology from Albert Einstein College of Medicine in Bronx, NY. She conducted her Post-Doctoral associate work in Neuroscience at the University of Central Florida, College of Medicine. She is currently a Tenured Professor of Biology and Principal Investigator of NSF S-STEM LEAPS and BOUNDS Scholarship program at Seminole State College of Florida. As Project Director of Seminole State College’s groundbreaking STEM Research Program since 2010, Byfield has forged partnerships with some of the region’s most prominent institutions, allowing students to gain valuable experiences in Central Florida’s emerging biotechnology industry. Dr. Byfield was featured in the PBS Stories of Champions segment of American Graduate Day 2015 and awarded as one of the Top 100 Inspiring Women in STEM in the nation by Insight into Diversity Magazine. Dr. Byfield is also founder and director of Phenomenal STEM(ist). For bright minds with the potential to become America’s next generation of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) leaders, Dr. Maya Byfield AKA the Phenomenal STEMist is a bridge between innate talent and real-world opportunities. A role model to female and minority students, she helps a wide cross-section of young people chart promising futures. Closing by Tahlia Sharpe. Resources mentioned during this interview: website: https://www.phenomenalstemist.com/ Social Media: Instagram @phenomenalstemist Facebook: Maya Byfield Youtube: Dr. Maya Byfield