Overcoming Barriers in Physics: Dr. Mary James' Journey and Advocacy

Explore the inspiring journey of Dr. Mary James, a pioneering physicist and advocate for diversity in STEM, in this keynote lecture from the Millie Dresselhaus Conference for Undergraduate Women in Physics (CUWiP). Discover how Dr. James overcame challenges as the daughter of a Tuskegee Airman to pursue her passion for science, from her early struggles in physics to her groundbreaking work at Stanford Linear Accelerator Center (SLAC). Learn about her academic path, including her B.A. in Physics from Hampshire College and Ph.D. in Applied Physics from Stanford University. Gain insights into her professional career, from her roles as a Junior Engineer at SLAC and Assistant Professor at the University of Maryland to her current position as Dean for Institutional Diversity at Reed College. Understand Dr. James' significant contributions to making the physics community more inclusive, including her work with the American Physical Society (APS) Committee on Minorities in Physics and her co-chairmanship of the American Institute of Physics Task Force to Elevate African American Representation in Undergraduate Physics and Astronomy (TEAM_UP). Be inspired by her dedication to fostering inclusive practices in STEM education and her efforts to support underrepresented groups in physics and astronomy.