Jennifer Evans
Power Words
Tribal Name
Haliwa-Saponi
Where were you born?
Greenville, NC
What school did you attend?
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
What gained you interest in the NIH?
During summer 2009, I organized an event for NIEHS employees called "Generations at Work", which included the NC Library for the Blind and Physically Handicap, Marbles Kids Museum, and Center of Universal Design. From that point, I knew that NIEHS was the place to begin my career.
How can you help improve the composition of the STEM education pipeline for Native American students?
I believe that I can assist in the structure of the STEM education pipeline for Native American students through effective outreach. Many Native students aren't aware of the possibilities outside of their community, similar to myself. Through outreach, we are inviting Native students to become an active participant in STEM, and this could lead to further interest in the NIH.
What is your most important accomplishment to date?
Recently, I've had to go through a medical situation. My medical team, my family, and I weren't sure what the future would hold for me mobility wise. Today, I'm happy to say that I'm driving, walking, and getting back into the life that I knew before. Now I have more confidence to conquer what is ahead of me!
How did you choose your career?
I chose this career at the NIH/NIEHS when I completed my internship.
What types of community programs do you feel need to be more visible in Indian Country?
There needs to be more educational and mentoring programs. These types of programs can help people in Indian country prosper while preserving their culture.
How can Tribal colleges build stronger partnerships with institutions like NIH?
The Tribal colleges can build stronger partnerships with institutions like NIH by attending workshops, partnerships and internship programs. What does success mean to you? Success means to continue moving forward.
What does success mean to you?
Success means to continue moving forward.