Here at the Center for Inclusive Education, we consider it an honor whenever an alum returns to participate in one of our programs or events. We believe there is much for current CIE scholars to learn from their past experiences, as well as where their career paths have led them. It is truly inspirational to listen to stories about the exciting research projects with which they are engaged, the places they have traveled and the connections they have made along the way. We are humbled when they mention the role we may have played in positioning and preparing them for their careers – whether it be through a program-specific funding mechanism, a professional development workshop or a simple networking opportunity.

On Monday, October 26, we had the esteemed privilege of welcoming Dr. Marvin Jaime-Vasquez as our guest for the Center for Inclusive Education Speaker Series. A former AGEP Fellow and Turner Postdoctoral Trainee, Dr. Jaime-Vasquez completed his PhD in Materials Science and Engineering at Stony Brook University in 2002.

In his talk, “Finding Success From Possibilities”, Dr. Jaime-Vasquez shared his experiences as a researcher and entrepreneur. Currently, he is a physicist at the United States Army Research, Development and Engineering Command (RDECOM), Communications Electronics Research, Development and Engineering Center (CERDEC), Night Vision and Electronic Sensors Directorate in Washington, DC. He is also the President of Sabor de mi Tierra Distributor, Inc. and CEO of Bakery Products by Genesis, Inc. – a wholesale bakery located in Bay Shore, NY.

Dr. Jaime-Vasquez considered himself to be a shy person while working on his doctorate. “Through the networking opportunities and professional development offered by the diversity programs at the CIE, I learned how to network and speak in public,” he said. These skills proved invaluable as he progressed professionally and then eventually embarked on the journey of owning a small business. “The analytical and problem solving skills you learn as part of your PhD are relevant and valuable in all aspects of your life and multiple career paths.” Dr. Jaime-Vasquez stressed to our attendees the importance of pursuing your passions, in all aspects of life, because it is from your passions and interests that ideas and innovation spring. It is often these innovations that serve as the starting point for entrepreneurial ideas and business opportunities.