In the ever-evolving landscape of scientific exploration and innovation, one fundamental principle stands tall: diversity drives progress. In the realms of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), inclusion isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the cornerstone upon which groundbreaking discoveries are built. Institutions like Xavier University have played a pivotal role in pushing progress forward by actively engaging and empowering Black students in STEM, fostering a community where all voices are valued and heard. Demonstrative of this drive, several Xavier students recently participated in the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minoritized Scientists (ABRCMS). This prestigious research conference allows students who may come from marginalized communities to present their findings on a national level. 

Thirty Students from Xavier presented their research during the recent conference. Five Xavierites were selected as “awardees” based on the judges’ scores, earning a certificate and a $400 award. The five students who received awards were seniors Ming Tate, Jordan Campbell, Shannon May, Kayla Carmichael, and Building Infrastructure Leading to Diversity (BUILD) post-baccalaureate technician, Adrian Alexander Thornton II. May, Carmichael and Campbell are BUILD scholars, and Tate is a McNair Scholar. A complete list of Xavier student attendees can be found here. 

Tate, who majors in psychology, received a travel award and was thus able to share her award-winning project, “Parental Math Self-Efficacy & Approach to Math Support Among Black Parents of Preschoolers.” Tate, dedicated to unraveling the intricate dynamics of early mathematical development, wanted to shed light on a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of Black life: Black parents’ inherent strengths and challenges in nurturing their children’s mathematical prowess. 

“I loved every moment in the lab—where psychological sciences meets connection,” said Tate, who also minors in African American and Diaspora Studies (AADS) and History. Tate’s experience embodies the essence of collaboration and discovery, symbolizing the transformative power of inclusive research environments.  

In 2001, the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) took a pioneering step in 2001 with the inception of ABRCMS. It was initially conceived to empower minority, first-generation, veteran, and disabled students, guiding underrepresented individuals toward higher education and careers in STEM. Over the years, its mission has evolved, embracing a broader spectrum of diversity and fostering an environment where all voices are heard and celebrated.  

Similarly driven by a passion for discovery and mentorship, Thornton stands at the forefront of synthetic protocol development. With a project aimed at crafting novel kinase inhibitors for combating Alzheimer’s disease and breast cancer, Thornton epitomizes the spirit of innovation fueled by a commitment to social responsibility. His dedication to mentoring undergraduate students echoes Xavier University’s ethos of fostering a more just and humane society through research-driven innovation. As a post-baccalaureate BUILD Lab Technician, Thornton often reflects on his journey honing his research abilities since his time as an undergraduate. 

“Being a member of Dr. Sridhar’s Research Lab has been extremely important to my overall growth as a professional and a person of integrity,” shared Thornton. His achievements, from synthesizing over twenty compounds to earning accolades at ABRCMS, underscore the profound impact of inclusive research environments in nurturing talent and driving scientific progress. 

Xavier is immensely proud of all the students who shared their research at ABRCMS. Instilled with the university’s mission to promote a more just and humane society, the findings of Xavier students establish foundations for building a better world. As Xavier prepares to celebrate its first century of service, its continuously developing innovation and excellence elevates a broader spectrum of diversity by empowering its students to propel ethical research, sound science, and justice forward into its next 100 years. 

ABRCMS 2023