EmpowerBio

Woodlawn High School recently celebrated its commitment to STEM education with an inspiring White Coat Ceremony and Poster Presentation event for Project Lead The Way students. The event was organized by Science Department Chair, Ms. Asha Rajamani, teachers and staff. The event highlighted the school’s dedication to preparing students for careers in the biomedical sciences. 

The event kicked off with a heartfelt welcome from Ms. Asha Rajamani, who highlighted the significance of the milestone and introduced the esteemed panelists. 

A keynote address by Dr. Amrita Madabushi, a well-regarded biotechnology professor, workforce advocate, and founder of EmpowerBio, set an inspiring tone for the day. Dr. Madabushi encouraged students to explore, persist, and find success in their unique career journeys.

Each panelist delivered motivational messages, leaving a lasting impression on the students.

• Da’Kuawn Johnson, a PhD candidate at the University of Maryland, urged students to embrace boldness and reminded them that their career paths don’t have to follow conventional routes.
• Anika Hamilton, an MD and MPH candidate at the University of Maryland, shared her personal journey, emphasizing the value of exploring different career paths to align with one’s strengths and passions.
• Aidan Dunphy, a Master’s student in Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine at Johns Hopkins University, discussed the importance of maintaining balance to achieve goals while leading a fulfilling life.
• Michekaard Lafontant, a biomedical engineer in BARDA inspired students to stay ambitious while letting go of perfectionism and to keep moving forward in career pathway.

The students were energized by the panelists’ stories and advice, sparking meaningful conversations for pursuing STEM careers.

A highlight of the event was the White Coat Ceremony, where seven senior students donned white coats as a symbolic step into their roles as aspiring STEM professionals. This moment recognized their achievements and reinforced their commitment to academic and professional excellence.

Following the ceremony, some sophomore students took center stage in the Poster Presentation, where they showcased research projects that they did with their teams.

The event provided an invaluable opportunity for networking with professionals. Students connected directly with field experts, gaining insights and advice about potential career pathways.