Research with High School Students

I hosted four high school students from Churchland High School at Norfolk State University’s Organic Materials Lab, where they spent a week doing research with organic optoelectronic materials. They presented their work to NSU faculty, students, and parents, and the Portsmouth Public School system recognized their effort on X (formerly Twitter).

Norfolk State University (NSU) offered mentoring opportunities for students through the Center for Materials Research. Dr. Lee, in collaboration with Old Dominion University, served on the Career Pathways Steering Committee, helping graduate students improve their research skills. He also gave two talks under NSU’s NSF CREST-CREAM grant on presentation skills and resumes, then gifted participants laser pointers for future use. Additionally, he mentored these students and other graduate students in research.

I had a great opportunity to present at Old Dominion University and to tour their new Chemistry building!

I was awarded the Modern Day Technology Leader award. These awardees are bright women and men who are shaping the future of engineering, science, and technology.

I spoke on “Opportunity Prefers the Prepared” at the NOBCChE 2024 Conference. Opportunities come anytime, so being prepared is crucial. While we can't control when opportunities arrive, we can control our readiness to seize them. 

I was awarded the Science Spectrum Trailblazer award. Trailblazers are men and women actively creating new paths for others in science, research, technology, and development. Some are experienced executives who continuously seek innovative products or lines of thought, some are breaking new ground at the midpoint of their careers, and others are recent graduates who show pioneering promise. But regardless of their career point, they distinguish themselves by constantly setting their sights higher, striving to innovate and open doors for others.

I was honored to speak on communicating difficult topics in STEM. The most impactful messages are simple, not long. "Less is More: The Secrets to Complex Communication" explores simplifying ideas without losing impact. Whether leading, presenting, or sharing your vision, clear communication is key. This session provides strategies to cut noise, engage audiences, and strengthen your message. Say more with less and increase your influence!

It was an honor to speak at Fayetteville State University’s 4th Annual Student Research Symposium. The hosts, students, faculty, facilities, and food were excellent! It’s inspiring to see students eager to present their research. My keynote, “Adversity is Inevitable,” discussed my career challenges and how I overcame them. I also spoke to the College of Health, Science, and Technology on “STEM Off the Beaten Path,” sharing my unconventional career path. Overall, I emphasized that success depends on effort, reputation, and preparation, not where you come from. 

We had the incredible opportunity to speak with Neil about professionalism and public speaking throughout my STEM career.