Expanding Audiences 

In their second DEI Dispatch Column, the NMEA Expanded Audiences co-chairs Dr. Dijanna Figueroa and Dr. DJ Kast decided to look closely at the two words that are connected with this movement: ally and co-conspirator.

The NMEA Expanded Audiences co-chairs interviewed experts in the field of diversity, equity and inclusion, and leaders of organizations whose work breaks down barriers and creates spaces for communities of color within this marine education field. A compilation of their responses in regards to systemic racism is presented in this first DEI Dispatch Column by Dr. Dijanna Figueroa and Dr. DJ Kast.

2019 Webinar Series Archive—Curiosity to Careers: Engaging People of Color in STEM with Dr. Dijanna Figueroa; Friday, February 8, 2019.

Yolanda Sánchez is the Education Coordinator for Oceana Chile and Expedición Batiscafo and supports marine conservation campaigns through education programs. She was a recipient of the 2019 Expanding Audiences Scholarship.

Rachel Cuizon Quadara is currently in her first year as a middle school science teacher at Our Savior Lutheran School in Livermore, CA, and was a recipient of the 2019 Expanding Audiences Scholarship.

Meet our 2019 NMEA Expanding Audiences Scholarship winners, Md Kutub Uddin (Arju), Yolanda Sánchez, and Rachel Cuizon Quadara!

Nevada Winrow is the Founder and CEO of Black Girls Dive Foundation (BGDF), a non-profit STEM organization dedicated to providing young girls an opportunity to explore their STEM identities in a supportive environment.

Dieuwertje Kast is the STEM Programs Manager for the University of Southern California’s (USC) Joint Educational Project. She coordinates science lessons for K-5 through the Wonderkids and Young Scientists Programs, and teaches college-preparatory science classes to high school students through USC’s Neighborhood Academic Initiative.

Introducing Dr. Dijanna Figueroa: marine biologist, educator, and social justice warrior!