Growing up in a rural area with limited science career opportunities, made me realize the importance of science communication. Science communication bridges the gap between scientists and non-scientists by demystifying complex ideas, and building a shared scientific appreciation. I want to inspire the next generation through my personal experiences and conveying the value of science. Genuine engagement with rural audiences reinforces my belief in the power of enthusiastic and relatable communication.
Over the past ten years, I've had presented for audiences totaling over 10,000 across Kansas, New Mexico, and Arizona. Around 75% of those I spoke to were from rural Kansas. This extensive outreach led to my selection as a NASA Solar System Ambassador in 2018 as well at a 2019 Mars Generation 24 under 24 STEM and Space Leader. Since then, I've successfully conducted nearly 100 outreach events at museums, science clubs, local groups, and schools.
Mars Presentations in Colby Kansas, ~550 participants, Spring 2018
During my final semester (Spring 2018) as an undergraduate at Kansas State University, my classes were exclusively online, granting me the flexibility to travel. Aware that I was beginning an internship in April, I decided to make a positive impact in Northwest Kansas before embarking on my last Los Alamos National Laboratory internship. Being from the region, I knew I could make a difference. I reached out to all the science teachers at the public school in my hometown and arranged talks for their classes. I spoke to students ranging from 5th to 8th grade, as well as the majority of high school students. In addition to the public school, I also gave presentations at a private school and the local Rotary club. In those two short months, I addressed around ~550 individuals, which accounted for about 10% of the town's population.
Mars Presentations Across Kansas, ~435 participants, March 2019
During my first year in graduate school (March 2019), I chose to spend my spring break giving talks across Kansas. I visited Colby, McPherson, Hutchinson, and Manhattan, engaging with various groups. This included high school students interested in science careers, STEM clubs, and community organizations. I also presented at conferences and university events, reaching a total of ~435 people with discussions centered on the Curiosity Rover.
Mars in Northwest Kansas, ~500 participants, June 2019
Continuing my momentum, I initiated a mini outreach series called “Mars in Northwest Kansas” in June 2019. Together with an outreach collaborator, we traveled to nine different communities across eight counties in rural Northwest Kansas over the course of five days. Each program was free and open to the public, organized in collaboration with local libraries, summer camps, and schools. My goal was to provide a fun science hour for free to the kids in the region! This series drew in over 500 participants from three states, 16 different counties, and 24 communities. It was heartening to know that our efforts even reached a mother and her two daughters from Colorado Springs, who traveled over three hours to attend one of our presentations, motivated by the desire to witness strong women in STEM. This has been presented at the 2021 Geological Society of America Annual Meeting.
Full Scale Models of Curiosity and Perseverance Mars Rovers
Driven by my passion for outreach and a constant quest for more effective methods, I developed two 3D models of the Curiosity Rover. The first, the "String Rover," involved materials like string, dowel rods, wire wreath frames, meter sticks, duct tape, and a cardboard box. This model encouraged audience participation, was compact for storage and transportation, and was shared at various conferences. The second model, the "PVC Pipe Rover," made from PVC pipe, silver fabric, duct tape, and cardboard, was free-standing, visually appealing, and easier to visualize than the String Rover. Both models were portable, reusable, and played a role in enhancing my outreach efforts. This has been presented at the 2019 Geological Society of America Annual Meeting.
Rocks & Rockets- Annual Event in Colby, KS
"Rocks & Rockets" is a free and open to the public event in Colby, KS that featured outreach booths from STEM departments from Kansas universities, as well as other activities led by local resident volunteers. Guests have the opportunity to explore two Giant Mars Maps (25’ x 25’), participate in an astronaut training course, talk to professional geologists, and enjoy other fun activities.
This event brings much needed STEM opportunities to one of the most rural locations in America. According to the Colby Free Press, out of the 1082 graduates in Thomas County high school seniors from 2010-2020, only three students reported they were interested in pursuing geology as a major. My goal for "Rocks & Rockets" is to increases the number of students interested in both geology and college. Right now, I am preparing for the 4th Annual Rocks & Rockets for August 16, 2025. For our website on "Rocks & Rockets" click here.