Dr. Kimberly Braxton was recognized as the “Best Community Partner” out of the pool of professional speakers during STEM Career Prep’s 2020-21 year of programming. Braxton conducted a two-day, interactive veterinary workshop for students in grades 6-10. Youth experienced what being a veterinarian would be like by learning how to examine pets, listen to heartbeats, interpret radiographs and even participate in interactive science projects that related to antimicrobial resistance. Of course, the UMES alumna also discussed the next steps in their academic plan, including considering coming to UMES!
The non-profit’s mission is “to support student’s STEM interests by providing meaningful opportunities for creative exploration, research and STEM career exposure and preparation.” Its goal is to increase diversity in STEM by bridging the gap between K-12 curriculum and careers. They provide hands-on learning opportunities, tutoring and mentoring by connecting youth to college students, university professors and professionals in related fields. For undergraduates, they help support the transition from college to career.
“As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands — one for helping yourself, the other for helping others,” Braxton said. “I have always put stock in the fact that no matter what happens in my life, I try to help those coming up behind me and even some that are coming up next to me. I remind myself daily that it’s not about what I have, it’s about who I’ve lifted up and who I’ve made better because I can never forget those that lifted me up and made me better.”
Gail Stephens, agricultural communications, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, School of Agricultural and Natural Sciences, gcstephens@umes.edu, 410-621-3850.
