ANDREA ASHLEY-OYEWOLE

Present Position

Chapter Affiliation

Background Information

Statement

I have been a Sigma Xi member since 2018 and I am truly honored to be presented with this opportunity to be of service as a member of the Committee on Nominations. I am acutely aware that the success and longevity of any organization require committed yet adept individuals that work to ensure its’ posterity. The charge given to this committee to judiciously select candidates for the positions of the President-Elect and Treasurer is of vital importance in the fulfillment of the organization and not one to be taken lightly. Working diligently and in unison with colleagues to fulfill the duties of the committee provides the opportunity to serve as a meaningful contributor to the Sigma Xi tradition of excellence. 

Sigma Xi’s desire and commitment to diversity requires bringing in a fresh new perspective to the organization. With many issues affecting global communities simultaneously, have diversity in opinion and process enables us as a research organization to better foster a multidisciplinary approach to these issues. The current pandemic has been the most glaring example of how issues of society should no longer be seen through narrow lenses. One nation’s crisis can very quickly become a global crisis if care is not taken. So to prepare for such events, organizations such as ours should position themselves in a way that provides solutions to the society we serve. Diversity on every level can be a great tool for reaping the best out of each individual. I believe thinking outside of the box allows for the unconventional approach to difficult issues that challenges us to reach deep into hidden or under-utilized gifts we have. I believe every scientist has value and there is a place for everyone. Tapping into persons' hidden potential is key if we desire true diversity of thought.

This need places me in a position to help usher in that new era alluded to at the last National meeting. I firmly believe in the mission of Sigma Xi and respect its place in the annals of all things scientific. I believe in science and I believe anyone who loves science should be given the chance to demonstrate it. As an environmental scientist who believes in the dissemination of information to all individuals on the level that they understand it and can appreciate it. I support the public having access to the information that helps them make informed choices. Therefore the task of selecting a leader that is keen on scientific literacy is crucial. The survival of many scientific institutions depends on financial acumen and public perception of their value to society in which they find themselves. In these changing times, however, our view of society is now more global and the undertaking of the Committee on Nominations has taken on even greater importance.