By Ivan Sanchez
NASHVILLE, TN — Nashville native Creea Shannon Smith is not only a second-year Ph.D. student at Vanderbilt University specializing in Biomedical Informatics but also a passionate advocate for diversity and empowerment in STEM fields. Smith’s journey into the world of academia and community advocacy has been driven by a profound interest in the intersections of science, technology, and community empowerment.
Smith’s recent internship at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy underscores her commitment to leveraging data science and Artificial Intelligence to address societal disparities. “My selection was largely attributed to my educational background and my unwavering commitment to serving underserved communities while championing STEM education,” Smith explains.
A pivotal moment in Smith’s journey was the realization of the lack of representation in children’s literature during her interactions with children from underserved elementary schools. This inspired her to pen “STEM Inspires Me,” a children’s book aimed at bridging the gap between STEM education and young minds. Through vibrant storytelling and colorful illustrations, the book introduces readers to a diverse array of STEM professions, inspiring children to dream big and envision themselves in STEM careers.
Smith’s dedication to empowering underserved communities extends beyond literature. She is actively engaged in international research endeavors focused on HIV within the realm of bioinformatics. Moreover, Smith is committed to community advocacy for health equity, actively raising awareness about health disparities and striving to effect positive change.
Last weekend, Smith served as the keynote speaker at the Black Girls in S.T.E.A.M. Summit organized by Meharry Medical College, the Urban League of Middle Tennessee, Meharry-Vanderbilt Alliance, and Bank of America. The event aims to inspire Black young women interested in pursuing careers in STEM fields.
For women interested in STEM, Smith offers invaluable advice: embrace passion, seek representation, prioritize education, build community, and believe in oneself. She emphasizes the importance of resilience, perseverance, and confidence in navigating the challenges of STEM careers.
Looking ahead, Smith is excited to announce the upcoming release of her second STEM children’s book, dedicated to boys, particularly boys of color. She encourages teachers interested in arranging STEM school visits to reach out to her, echoing Harriet Tubman’s words: “Every great dream begins with a dreamer.”
In the world of Creea Shannon Smith, diversity, empowerment, and STEM excellence intertwine to create a brighter, more inclusive future. As she continues to advocate for change, Smith’s message resonates: Dream BIG, for the possibilities are limitless.
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