WSSU biology co-chair recognized for STEM diversity efforts

Dr. Stephanie Dance-Barnes, co-chair of the Department of Biological Sciences and associate professor at Winston-Salem State University (WSSU), has received the 2017 Inspiring Leaders in STEM award.

The award, from Insight Into Diversity magazine, honors professionals from underrepresented groups who have made a difference in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)

Dance-Barnes will be featured, along with 39 other recipients, in the September 2017 issue of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine.

Recently, Dance-Barnes spearheaded efforts to overhaul the curriculum of the Department of Biological Sciences to create a more authentic research experience for students.

She also strives to inspire undergraduates by facilitating volunteer opportunities and providing mentorships for WSSU students. Since 2010, about 25 undergraduates and four high school students have rotated in her cancer research lab.

Inspiring Leaders in STEM Award recipients were nominated by a colleague and selected by INSIGHT Into Diversity based on their efforts to inspire and encourage a new generation of young people to consider careers in STEM through mentoring, teaching, research and successful programs and initiatives.

Dance-Barnes is one of only two North Carolina honorees.

INSIGHT Into Diversity is the largest and oldest diversity and inclusion publication in higher education.

“We know many of those working in STEM fields, especially those from underrepresented groups, are not always recognized for their success, dedication, and mentorship to others,” says Lenore Pearlstein, owner and publisher of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. “We want to honor the many professionals who are inspirations to their colleagues, their community, and to young people who may be interested in a future career in STEM. We are proud to honor these leaders as role models to all.”

A call for nominations for this award was announced in April 2017.