Download - Fellows Impact

Impact of the ASTC Diversity & Leadership Development Fellows Program

In Their Own Words

Damon GibbsNew Fellow – 2004

Alumni Fellow – 2005, 2006, 2007

The ASTC Fellowship Program has made a difference in my work and career by helping me go deeper in my role as a science center professional. The first way my participation has done this is by helping to equip me to move from the role of youth program coordinator to the manager of an entire Youth Program Department. As a manager, I now have the ability to use the tools that I have gained from the Fellowship program to influence not just one youth program but 3 youth programs in addition to an entire organization. The organization that I came from had fully adopted the mission and values of the Fellowship Program from the top on down.

As an employee of that organization for 12 plus years, I have never experienced an organization that is brand new and still growing and maturing. I feel like the Fellowship Program has truly prepared me with the tools to be a catalyst of its mission and values in a new organization.

As a result of the Program, I have been able to maintain a sense of solidarity within the field, especially during the year that I was out of the field.

Mike KerkmanNew Fellow – 2009

Alumni Fellow – 2010

I knew I wanted to be a science educator, but I felt strongly that I also wanted to be working with the LGBT community.

The Fellows Program was one of the ways that helped validate and strengthen in me the knowledge that these two roles are not exclusive of each other.

Jennifer CorreaNew Fellow – 2004Alumni Fellow – 2006

Starting at NYSCI at the age of 17, I was amazed at what science centers could offer our visitors and grateful to be given the opportunity to work there. After years of professional development and support at my institution, and my own dedication to teaching the public about science, I was accepted as an ASTC Diversity Fellow.

The Diversity Fellowship program provoked my interest in continuing my education and it was there where I learned that my position at NYSCI was not only a job, but a career.


In Their Own Words

LaJean BurnettNew Fellow – 2006

Alumni Fellow – 2007, 2010

The ASTC Equity and Diversity Leadership Fellows Program has helped me to gain a greater confidence to be able to progress in the science center and museum field.

Mostly it’s given me the opportunity to give back to the field by sharing my experiences with new fellows and presenting at ASTC Conferences.

B.J. SiasocoNew Fellow – 2009

The Fellows program reaffirmed and strengthened my commitment and passion for informal education and the science museum field. That's a lot of "and's" but that's because it's so true!

I expanded a network I rely on for advice to this very day. I met great people who were facing the same challenges and questions that I was--I learned I wasn't alone and that was so valuable as a young professional starting out in the field. If two heads are better than one, then becoming a Fellow meant I gained a bunch of smart, funny, and passionate heads to bounce ideas of off.

If there is one thing I could tell someone they would take away from this program it is that quality education is a team effort, and the Fellows program drafts some great players into your team. That or you should always watch out for glass doors....(Thanks Fellows in Fort Worth, I'm glad I could make you all laugh!)

Regina HallNew Fellow – 2002Alumni Fellow – 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006

I have several pictures, but this one is posted on my bulletin board as a reminder of the courage, wisdom and support I have to get through all the challenges!


In Their Own Words

Mark ThorneNew Fellow – 2001Alumni Fellow – 2003, 2004, 2010

My acceptance as an ASTC Diversity Fellow in 2001 and my experience with the program was the catalyst behind my decision to approach my work in the museum as a career and not a job. After nine years, I still love what I do and plan to continue in the museum field.

Christina SoontornvatNew Fellow – 2008

The Fellows program taught me that everyone has the potential to be a leader. Since becoming a Fellow, I’ve increased my leadership role in my organization and I have a stronger long-term vision of myself in this field. I know that I have a supportive network of other Fellows who are behind me all the way!

Ken LatinNew Fellow – 2001Alumni Fellow – 2008

IThe program helped me to see and understand how important diversity at a science center is. It also gave me some great ideas to take back to Sci-Port: Louisiana's Science Center.


In Their Own Words

Astrid RomanNew Fellow – 2007

Alumni Fellow – 2008

Being an Alumni Fellow, I have gained confidence presenting in front of my professional colleagues, learned how to network with others in the Science Center/Museum field, have had the opportunity meet and learn from a diverse group of people, and have gained everlasting friendships and mentors that help guide my journey.

Cheronda FrazierNew Fellow – 2000

Alumni Fellow – 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006

Through my 10 year journey with the Diversity Fellows Program, I have learned that someone who is truly passionate about the work they do can make a difference.

I’ve gained a network of supportive and diverse professionals who have shown me that the greatest mistake you can make in your career is do nothing just because you can do little. This has enabled me to create a supportive and inclusive environment in my own institution.

Nikole Williams-ManningNew Fellow – 2007Alumni Fellow – 2010

The Diversity Fellows program provided me with a better understanding of my role as a leader in the museum world – how I can impact so many people and prepare myself for the growth and accomplishments that await me. I am appreciative of the opportunity and will always continue to support this cause.


In Their Own Words

Haritha AkkarajuNew Fellow – 2009

Through the Fellows program, I learned to take responsibility for myself and my museum.

If I want things to change, I have to stop complaining and start acting.

Lynell MooreNew Fellow – 2003Alumni Fellow – 2004, 2006, 2007

Although some days I feel like I’m rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic, the fellows program taught me 3 things: patience, persistence and to have fun!