BlackGirlScientist Founder Offers Workshop for Students

During the workshop, Dr. King shared her experiences as a student, which included a deep interest in the environment and participation in programs that supported those interests. She also discussed potential career paths in chemistry, noting the field's importance to nearly everything, sharing her belief that “chemistry explains everything,” a sentiment her fellow chemistry teachers, Dr. Anderson and Dr. de Denus, also present at the event, wholeheartedly echoed.

Dr. King then spoke about how the things we put on our bodies impact what's inside our bodies, providing students with resources for researching the ingredients in both our food and cosmetics. Finally, she led students through the process of making their own lip gloss using organic products and simple, safe ingredients.

The workshop clearly resonated with the students. Lailani E. ’29 noted, “It takes fewer ingredients to make something safe for my skin.” She and other students also shared that they loved learning about other women in chemistry. Ariana A. ’26 summed up the experience beautifully, stating that Dr. King “is a true inspiration.”

Students unanimously agreed they would attend another workshop with BlackGirlScientist and would recommend it to a friend. We look forward to welcoming Dr. King back to campus soon!

This workshop was offered thanks to a generous donation from Johanna Berry ’23 and her family. Maya Berry expressed that “it was an honor” to give back to the Foxcroft community in this way for the amazing years they experienced while Johanna was a student, and credited Foxcroft with helping Johanna realize her love of STEAM. Johanna now attends William & Mary and is a chemistry minor.