On Thursday, March 28th, the University of Arkansas hosted a Women's History Month Distinguished Lecture sponsored by the U of A Associated Student body.
The guest speaker was Felecia Nave, a distinguished professor, researcher, and former president of Alcorn State University.
The lecture aimed to provide insights into navigating the intricacies of engineering and academia.
The event celebrated the contributions of women in engineering and honored the achievements of women across all fields.
Shantel Romer, president of the Graduate Society of Women Engineers, highlighted the significance of Women's History Month, calling it a crucial time to emphasize the contributions of women in engineering.
Patrice Storey, assistant director of the college's Office of Community and Engagement, emphasized the importance of fostering a diverse workforce.
Nave has a proven record of achievement focused on increasing strategic partnerships with Fortune 500 corporations, governmental agencies, foundations, and philanthropic giving.
As president of Alcorn State University, Nave helped the institution garner the most significant gift from a single donor — a $25 million unrestricted donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.
In addition, Nave helped to secure a $500,000 donation for scholarships from an alumnus and a $1 million endowment donation from the Bernard Osher Foundation to support students who dropped out of college.
Nave's experience and leadership within historically Black colleges, universities, and corporate America provide a unique perspective.
She highlights the significance of diversity and inclusion in STEM fields and advocates for increased participation of women in engineering programs.
Nave has spent over 20 years serving the nation's HBCUs. She has served as an administrator and faculty member at Alcorn State University, North Carolina Central University, and Prairie View A&M University.
She has industry experience working at Proctor & Gamble and CF Industries (formerly MS Chemical Corporation).
