03/11/2022
On February 24th, Gilda Barabino began her role as the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) president-elect. She will serve for one year as president-elect, one year as president, then one year as chair of the AAAS Board of Directors.
“To be part of an historic, storied organization at this moment where we can work together for real change is exciting to me,” said Barabino.
In a candidacy statement that was distributed to members during the election, Barabino noted the “the moment of opportunity” the scientific community currently occupies. “Facing future challenges of unprecedented magnitude and complexity, ranging from infectious disease and systemic racism, pandemics to climate change and global inequality, science can serve as a global public good and equalizer.”
Barabino has clear goals and priorities she plans to pursue in her new role. She wants to prioritize equity in science through increasing membership and partnerships, and particularly wants to increase outreach and membership with young people and underrepresented groups.
Barabino holds a B.S. degree in chemistry from Xavier University of Louisiana and a Ph.D. in chemical engineering from Rice University. As a biomedical engineer, Barabino has been noted for her research work on sickle cell disease and cellular and tissue engineering. Barabino was the first African American woman to be admitted to the Chemical Engineering graduate program at Rice University. She also was the fifth African American woman in the nation to obtain a doctorate in Chemical Engineering, graduating in 1986 with her Ph.D. Barabino has been breaking ceilings in STEM for women of color and we are excited to continue watching her open more doors for future generations to join in this inclusive work.