HEATHER A. ARNETT
Present Position
Assistant Professor, Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Charleston
Chapter Affiliation
Member-at-Large
Background Information
CV
Biography
Statement
I first encountered Sigma Xi as a young junior faculty, which is a little unusual. I had just been hired at my current position and a colleague of mine that I worked with under a visiting position previously recommended that I read grants for the Sigma Xi Grants in Aid of Research Program. I read for two semesters and was invited to join. While my path into Sigma Xi is unusual, I think it is no less important. As I build my portfolio submission for my contract, my affiliation is beneficial, as is my work with the grant program. It is the community that Sigma Xi builds for individuals at all levels that is most important. For students at the university and graduate level we provide grants, support and conference networking. I have found that the community connections, advice, and support are essential in helping individuals create, stabilize and expand their academic careers in whatever way that may take them.
Recently, I received a surprising yet exciting call to serve as interim Associate Director for the Membership at Large Constituency here at Sigma Xi. Together with the current Director, I would like to help develop her focus on bringing together the community of the Membership at Large since we are more widespread than the other constituents. One significant impact I can make is to help develop a strong social media presence, which I am currently helping my department develop for our students. I have worked closely with Dr. Perry since she connected me with the Sigma Xi community and I believe it will be a very effective working group!