Juanita Limas is a 3rd year PhD candidate in Dr. Jean Cook’s lab. She is studying mechanisms of DNA replication in normal cells versus cancer cells. She is also very active in the Initiative for Maximizing Student Development (IMSD) program at UNC. One of her activities she was involved with was as a member of the planning committee of the for the 4th Annual Diversity in STEM conference this year at the George Watts Hill Alumni Center on November 8, 2018.
One of the key strengths of being at UNC is the ability for graduate students to become involved in many activities such as this event. As co-chair, Juanita was involved in inviting Keynote Speakers, hosting them for dinner with the planning committee, organizing logistics of the conference, as well as networking with other key constituents during the event. UNC provides plentiful opportunities to be able to network and develop critical communication skills as a scientist. These opportunities allow our students to be integral part of planning committees such as the Diversity in STEM event as well as coordinating other scientific events on campus, all of which aid greatly in UNC’s ability to produce highly trained and professional scientists.
UNC STEM 2018 DISC Panel Flyer
4th Annual Diversity in STEM conference Planning Committee:
Lakeya Hardy, Co-Chair, IMSD Diversity in STEM Conference Planning Committee
Juanita Limas, Co-Chair, IMSD Diversity in STEM Conference Planning Committee
Carolina Herrera, Member, IMSD Diversity in STEM Conference Planning Committee
Lacey Lopez, Member, IMSD Diversity in STEM Conference Planning Committee
Zayna King, Member, IMSD Diversity in STEM Conference Planning Committee
Faculty and Staff members:
Dr. Ashalla Freeman, Director, IMSD program
Dr. Jessica Harrell, Director of Academic Excellence, IMSD program
Dr. Noelle Romero, Program Coordinator, Chancellor’s Science Scholars program
Dr. Richard Watkins, Program Coordinator, Chancellor’s Science Scholars program