Akilah is a community science specialist at the Academy of Natural Sciences and an environmental scientist whose work centers on environmental justice, community engagement, and equitable access to nature. A Drexel University graduate and Fulbright U.S. Student Program recipient, they have conducted environmental consulting and community-based research both locally and internationally. Their work focuses on developing the Science Shop for Climate Resilience program and co-creating community-based learning initiatives with urban heritage farmers. Bringing a decolonial lens to their projects, Akilah bridges science, education, and social justice to foster culturally grounded, community-driven solutions that strengthen connections between people and the land. 

Tanya is a certified freshwater ecologist, entomologist, and project manager with more than 20 years of experience in biodiversity, aquatic ecology, and environmental conservation. She specializes in freshwater macroinvertebrates, water quality assessment, and biodiversity monitoring, combining field ecology with innovative tools such as DNA barcoding. Tanya is also a passionate science communicator and advocate for inclusive science, serving in leadership roles with organizations such as 500 Women Scientists. Through her work, she promotes the conservation of freshwater ecosystems while fostering public engagement with environmental science. 

Tia is a biotechnology entrepreneur, innovator, and advocate for equity in the life sciences. She is the Founder and CEO of LucasPye BIO, a biopharmaceutical manufacturing company, and HelaPlex, the first commercial life science accelerator designed to support emerging biotechnology companies. With more than two decades of experience in bioprocessing, regulatory science, and biotechnology commercialization, Dr. Lyles-Williams is a national leader in advancing innovation while expanding opportunities for historically underrepresented communities in STEM. Her groundbreaking work has earned recognition from Forbes NEXT 1000, Inc.'s Female Founders 100, and numerous other national organizations. 

Melanie is an Associate Professor of Chemistry at McDaniel College, where her work bridges chemistry, education, and social responsibility. A researcher, educator, and advocate for equity in STEM, she co-founded STEMivism and studies representation, bias, and inclusion in science education. Her research has examined gender and racial representation in chemistry textbooks, contributing to national conversations about diversity in STEM. Through her teaching, scholarship, and public engagement, Dr. Nilsson is committed to fostering a more inclusive and socially responsible scientific community.

 

Alexis is Chief Storyteller and Podcast Host at the Science History Institute, where she leads the award-winning Distillations magazine, podcast, and digital storytelling platform. A public historian and engaging science communicator, she specializes in making the history of science accessible to broad audiences through compelling stories, talks, and tours. Alexis also directed the National Endowment for the Humanities–funded project Innate: How Science Invented the Myth of Race, which explores the historical roots and lasting impacts of racism in science and medicine. She holds degrees from Temple University and Arcadia University and is passionate about connecting history, science, and the public through meaningful conversations.