Keynote Speaker - Dr. Nola Etkin
From Student Leader and Equity Activist to Dean of Science: Advocating for EDI in the Chemical Sciences We are taught that Chemistry is supposed to be an objective field - in theory one that should not differentiate based on irrelevant characteristics. But the experience of students and faculty members is not objective. In recent years, we have seen many examples of inequities and intolerance, from the heartbreaking accounts in the Report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to the increased levels of racism and xenophobia and the challenges faced by folks of diverse gender identities. In order to make our institutions fully inclusive is it important that we listen and pay attention to the insights and experiences of scientists from these diverse identities. In this session I will share my journey to and through an academic career, beginning with my years as a PhD student at the University of Alberta in the early 1990s. I will share the impacts that my multiple identities have had on my career and the choices I have made in my research, my teaching, and my focus on service to my communities. My story will show how our identities are intricately tied to all aspects of our lives, and how bringing our full selves to our work allows us to make the greatest impact.
