Two University of Rhode Island (URI) alum made history at the 2019 Women of Color STEM Conference. Catalina Martinez (left) and Sheekela Baker-Yeboah graduated from the School of Oceanography.

Catalina Martinez received the Women of Color Diversity Leadership in Government award. She began her ocean science career in 2002 as a John A. Knauss Marine Policy Sea Grant Fellow and rose to become a program manager at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Office of Ocean Exploration and Research.

“I have focused on exploring, identifying, and breaking down barriers to entry for underrepresented individuals into STEM opportunities, academic programs, and the workforce,” Martinez told URI. “Not only do I work with a dedicated group within NOAA on these issues, but also with a talented team at URI, who are as committed as I am to embracing difference and broadening the reach of STEM opportunities for groups historically and consistently underrepresented in these fields.”

Martinez dropped out of high school to support herself and help her family. She went on to earn three degrees at the University of Rhode Island: a bachelor’s degree in zoology (‘97), a master’s of marine affairs (‘02), and an M.B.A. (‘14).

Sheekela Baker-Yeboah received a Technology Rising Star award for her NOAA Affiliate Research Scientist work through the University of Maryland. After earning her doctorate, Baker-Yeboah did postdoctoral training at MIT. Then, in 2015 she joined NOAA.

Baker-Yeboah has worked with the National Centers for Environmental Information, the Satellite Oceanography and Climatology Division, and the Center for Satellite Applications and Research.

Baker-Yeboah also served as a scientist at the Cooperative Institute for Satellite Earth System Studies in the Earth System Science Interdisciplinary Center at the University of Maryland.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of working with NOAA is being an integral part of an organization that serves our nation, from people who use satellite data to surf ocean waves to others needing it for search-and-rescue efforts to help those in need,” she told URI.

Martinez told URI that ensuring women of color are provided leadership opportunities at the same level and rate as their peers would bring new perspectives to the table and create momentum.

The 2020 Women of Color STEM Conference honored Lt. Jordan Johnson as a Rising Star. An avid “STEM Ambassador” for "GirlTalk University," she helps young minority girls see their potential by promoting self-esteem and career development.

Through the Atlanta University Center Veterans and Military Affinity Group, Johnson mentored Atlanta-area Midshipmen who showed interest in the Surface Warfare Officer Information Professional (SWO-IP) community. Her involvement resulted in college students applying for and being accepted into the Navy.

Specialist Paulette Williams was named a 2012 Technology All-Star Award winner for being an avid volunteer. All-Stars are accomplished women of color with approximately 22 or more years in the workforce who have demonstrated excellence in their workplace and communities.

"I couldn't have imagined that I would ever have the opportunity to receive this prestigious award," said Williams, a veteran of the Navy. "I am thankful for my chain of command for their support and nomination. This is one of the highest honors of my Navy career," she added.