The Department of Chemistry hosts several inclusive excellence events to support our strategic inclusive excellence goals. Learn more about these events below and in the menu. If you have any questions about any of the programs, please reach out to the Assistant Director of Graduate Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Chemical Sciences.
St. Elmo Brady Postdoctoral Inclusive Excellence Symposium
The Department of Chemistry at the University of Illinois created the St. Elmo Brady Postdoctoral Inclusive Excellence Symposium (SEBPIES) series in 2020. The initiative provides a forum for a diverse group of postdocs interested in pursuing research faculty positions. This symposium is in honor of St. Elmo Brady, who in 1916 became the first African American to earn a Ph.D. in chemistry in the United States when he graduated from the University of Illinois. The purpose of this award is recognizing that a commitment to diversity initiatives can play a significant role in furthering the inclusion of underrepresented groups in advanced STEM careers. Learn more about St. Elmo Brady.
Gender Equity in Chemical Sciences Conference
Sponsored by the Department of Chemistry's Graduate Diversity and Program Climate Office and the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, the annual Gender Equity in Chemical Sciences Conference is open to all graduate students and post-docs in both departments who are passionate about advocating for and supporting the professional advancement of women in the chemical sciences. The main objectives of the conference are to provide professional and social networking opportunities, offer advice and information regarding early graduate school decisions, and provide career development information and perspectives. The event is offered at no cost for all participants.
The Stoesser Lecture
The Department of Chemistry initiated the Sylvia Stoesser lecture series in 2000 with generous support from Dow AgroSciences and Chemistry alumna, Dr. Yulan Tong. This lecture highlights one of the early pioneers for women in chemistry, Sylvia M. Stoesser. It features an individual who has made outstanding contributions to the chemical community and provides new perspectives in the chemical field outside academia. Past speakers include executives from the American Chemical Society, Pfizer, Sandia National Laboratories and Honeywell UOP.