"Nobody is born intelligent: intelligence feeds from effort and desire to learn."
--Félix E. Rivera-Mariani, PhD FAAAAI
Dear readers, I am a professor, mentor, and scientist bridging biochemistry, microbiology, immunology, environmental health, data science, and computational approaches to promote society's respiratory well-being. Recently elected Fellow of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (FAAAAI), foundational pillar in all my professional endeavors is my unwavering commitment to inclusion, diversity, anti-racism, and equity (IDARE). Rooted in this ethos, I've cultivated a teaching philosophy in foundational biomedical sciences (i.e., microbiology, immunology, genetics, and biochemistry), public health, and data science subject matters that foster equitable, psychologically safe, and transformative learning spaces where students feel seen, supported, and challenged. This philosophy extends to my mentorship commitment, where I guide students through immersive research experiences, helping them shape their career trajectories, visions, and objectives. In this mentorship dynamic, both the mentee and I share the responsibility for core mentoring skills, ensuring mutual accountability. Above all, I advocate for democratizing science, striving tirelessly to make it accessible to every community.
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Recent News and Blogs
Recent News:
I’m honored to these two recent announcements:
1) Being named Fellow if the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology.
We are glad thee AAAAI recognizes our work, including the intersection of exposures to airborne biological (e.g., outdoor and indoor environment airborne allergens), non-biological pollutants and climate-related hazards. Read more here!
2) Being selected to the GeoCafePostdoctoral Opportunity
I'm honored to be selected as part of the GeoCAFE scholar cohort (https://www.climatehealthcafe.org/geocafe) — a dynamic network of changemakers working at the intersection of climate, community, and health.
"The idea behind GeoCAFE is simple: climate is affecting human health in serious ways, but too often, experts in geosciences and health work in separate spaces. GeoCAFE aims to bridge that gap, creating opportunities for collaboration between those who study environmental factors and those who address the health challenges they cause." (source: https://www.climatehealthcafe.org/geocafe)
It’s especially meaningful to be in the company of familiar faces who share a vision deeply aligned with my own—a commitment to equity, environmental justice, and sustainable systems.
Let the work begin!
#GeoCAFE #ClimateHealth #EnvironmentalJustice #ClimateAction #HealthEquity #PublicHealth #SustainableCommunities
Recent Blogs:
Beyond "I Don't See Differences": Navigating the Nuances of DEI
Have you ever been in a conversation about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) where someone chimes in with, "I just don't see differences between people? We're all just humans, right?" While the sentiment behind this statement might be rooted in good intentions, it overlooks the reality of human experience and can pose significant challenges to achieving true DEI. Click here to read the blog.
Unveiling the Differences: Boss vs. Manager vs. Mentor
In the world of leadership and guidance, the titles "boss," "manager," and "mentor" are often used interchangeably, but they represent distinct roles and approaches. Understanding these differences is crucial for personal and professional growth, whether you're in a leadership position or striving to excel under one. Let's delve into the nuances that set being a boss, manager, and mentor apart. Click here to read the blog.
The Journey to Becoming a College Student-Athlete
So, you've got the skills on the field and the drive in the classroom. Now, you're looking to fuse your love for sports with your academic career by becoming a college student-athlete. Transitioning from high school to college sports can be challenging yet immensely rewarding. Here's a guide to aid you on your journey. Click here to read the blog.