Sharing her creativity and journey, Dr. Karen de la Vega-Hernández (Marie Curie Postdoctoral Fellow at the Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ-CERCA)) has been featured in the ACS-wide Diversity & Inclusion Cover Art Program. This initiative celebrates the diverse voices within the chemistry community and has been a platform for historically excluded or underserved populations of chemists to share their stories since its inception in 2021.
Dr. de la Vega-Hernández’s cover art and editorial (“Deep Roots, Boundless Horizons”), now published, are not just a personal triumph but a beacon of inspiration for Latina scientists worldwide. Through her narrative she illustrates her journey as a Latina scientist overseas. Her story is one of growth, pride in one’s roots, and a representation of Latin American women in the global scientific arena.
In her own words, Dr. de la Vega-Hernández describes her artwork: “My artwork illustrates the journey of a real Latina scientist overseas, as a testament to the strength of our inheritance and the endless possibilities that lie ahead. It is a narrative of overcoming challenges and cumulative barriers, embracing growth, and proudly representing our roots in the global scientific community. It is a depiction of the journey of many Latin American women in science abroad. It is my journey.”
This narrative is not only hers but also belongs to the many who share this path. She echoes the experiences of many others in science who navigate their careers abroad. It stands as a symbol of overcoming cumulative barriers, embracing growth, and proudly representing one’s heritage in the international scientific community.
As we celebrate Dr. de la Vega-Hernández’s accomplishments, we are reminded of the importance of initiatives like the ACS-wide Diversity & Inclusion Cover Art Program. They not only provide a platform for scientists to share their stories but also reminds us the importance of fostering inclusive environments where the next generation of chemists can thrive. The ACS-wide Diversity & Inclusion Cover Art Program continues to invite submissions from chemists who identify as part of historically underserved and underrepresented populations. This initiative not only showcases their artistic talents but also shares their unique and impactful stories, contributing to a more inclusive and diverse scientific community.
As Dr. de la Vega-Hernández continues to make strides in her scientific career, her presence in initiatives like the ACS-wide Diversity & Inclusion Cover Art Program serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of diversity in science. We invite you to read her publication: https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.jchemed.4c00971