To help celebrate Women’s History Month 2020, Lab employees discuss women who have had an impact on their life. Want to add your story? Go here.
Diego Novoa
Graduate Student
Physical Sciences Area
Honoring His Mother Sheila Dyer
My mom is the strongest woman, and indeed probably the strongest person, that I know. She has always been my supporter and advocate. She constantly encourages me to be the best I can be. At the same time, she sets an example by continuing to learn and improve every day. All while constantly gardening and doing manual labor on her house! She is my hero and has impacted my life beyond words.
Cindy Lee
Science Communications
Energy Sciences Area
Honoring Her Undergraduate Advisor Peggy Lemaux
In undergrad, I joined a lab working on sorghum–introducing genes to make the plant more nutritious or drought-resistant. It was inspiring to see how my advisor educated the public, students, and other scientists, particularly when people were fearful of genetic engineering. Now, I’m working in my dream job as a science communicator.
Negest Williams
Program Manager
Physical Sciences Area
Honoring Her Mother Tsehai Kebede
My mother, Tsehai Kebede, is my role model, mentor and friend. She taught me the art of living a more fulfilling life by having gratitude for what I have been given, and by having compassion and respect for those who are less fortunate than I am. She taught me to be a strong, courageous person and to never let others determine my self-worth. She inspires me to be the best version of myself.
Stephanie Daglia
Procurement System Lead and Project Manager
Office of the Chief Financial Officer
Honoring Her Grandmother
My grandmother never went to college, but was an avid reader. She was known to walk around reading a book as she did chores. She had plans to attend college courses when her family left the nest, but passed away before she could accomplish that goal. She inspired me to be a reader as well and go on to write and complete an English degree.
Kripa Jagannathan
Postdoctoral Researcher
Earth and Environmental Sciences Area
Honoring Her Ph.D. Advisory Margaret Torn
Margaret has been my biggest supporter, cheerleader, has pushed my limits, and helped me grow as a researcher and a person. She is a role-model in her accomplishments, humility, and genuine care for the people around her. Despite encountering a very deep personal loss, she came to attend my Ph.D. exit seminar the next day to support me. That really sums up the kind of person she is, and I am extremely grateful for that.
Kristen McIntosh & Karissa Christopher
Energy Sciences Area & Operations/Health Services
UPO Administrator & Medical Assistant
Honoring Their Mother Robin Moody
Our protector, she is a mother that has always put her children first. She’s there to pick us up and provide guidance. Reminding us of how smart, special and beautiful we are even if the world says otherwise. She is the person that has always had our backs. The very first person we would learn to trust. She exudes confidence, elegance, and class. Because of her, we are Courageous, Strong, Intelligent, Generous, Responsible, Respectful and Kind.
Want to add your story? Go here.