STEM Speaker Series 1
- Speaker: Lee Hendrickson
- Topic: Microscopic Crystal Art
- Date: Wednesday, February 12
- Time: 3:30 – 4:30 pm
- Location: SL-116
Mr. Hendrickson’s fine art photographs of crystals present a uniquely beautiful view of nature. The crystals are first grown through evaporation from a solution and then captured with a high-resolution digital microscope. The resulting images showcase stunning rainbows of color created by the refraction of light through the crystal facets. Each pattern is as delicate, fleeting, and unique as a snowflake. Come learn how this is done and view this microscopic crystal art in person.
STEM Speaker Series 2
- Speaker: Yvonne Rich
- Topic: Did you Know? More Hidden Figures
- Date: Wednesday, February 26
- Time: 3:30 – 4:30 pm
- Location: SL-116
Journey through history to discover the groundbreaking achievements, transformative inventions, and lasting contributions of African Americans to STEM—stories that deserve to be honored, preserved, and shared for future generations!
Special STEM Workshop
- Speaker: Dr. Vivian U
- Topic: Journey to becoming a scientist
- Date: Monday, April 7
- Time: 2 - 3 pm
- Location: NS-400
Did you know that in many scientific fields, such as physics, astronomy, and geology, schools actually pay you to pursue a PhD? And that many professional scientists skip the master's degree and go straight to a PhD? Join us for a conversation with Dr. Vivian U, a visiting speaker, to learn about the journey to becoming a professional scientist. We’ll explore the rewards and challenges of a scientific career, discuss what graduate school is like and how it differs from undergraduate studies, and share tips on finding research opportunities (with pay) while in community college or university. There will be plenty of time for your questions. This event will be hosted by Dr. Carver Bierson from SCC Astronomy.
STEM Speaker Series 3
- Speaker: Dr. Vivian U
- Topic: Cosmic Feedback: When Black Holes Talk Back
- Date: Monday, April 7
- Time: 3:30 – 4:30 pm
- Location: SL-116
Galaxies, often referred to as "Cosmic Ecosystems," are composed of stars, gas, and black holes. The interactions between these components determine how a galaxy evolves as a dynamic system over time. Galactic winds, driven by active black holes—especially in the dusty cores of colliding galaxies—are believed to play a crucial role in this evolutionary process. This talk will present the latest findings from the James Webb Space Telescope, showcasing merging galaxies and revealing hidden black holes and star formation. It will also trace the movement of gas across these galactic ecosystems, addressing the longstanding question: How do galaxies and black holes evolve together?
This talk is part of the Shapley Lecture Series and is sponsored by the American Astronomy Society (AAS), the SETI Institute, and the NASA Community College Network.
STEM Speaker Series 4
- Speaker: Vicki Preston - President and CEO of the Desert Foothills Land Trust
- Topic: Land Management in Arizona
- Date: April 28
- Time: 3:30 – 4:30 pm
- Location: SL-116
Spend an inspiring afternoon with Vicki Preston, as she discusses her dedication to preserving one of North America’s most unique and delicate ecosystems. Gain insights into how land management in Arizona influences conservation, learn about strategies for preserving private lands, and explore ways to safeguard this invaluable ecosystem. Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of desert conservation and discover how you can help.