Dr. Harrison's successes began in college with creation of a computational platform to generate art using AI. Summer internships brought industry experience in more computer design, software testing and a model to teach computers to read, the very technology used by the post offices today. It wasn't until after college she realized that she could use her computational skill in the field of molecular biology. To that end, she developed of the first fruit fly genetic database, wrote programs to diagnose diseases from genetic data, and participated the team of genomic cartographers. The resulting maps are used by scientists today to design new drugs. Details and references about her work can be found here.
Dr. Harrison enjoys telling the stories about the goals she set, how she met them, the help she sought and received along the way, and the strategies that got her to where she is today.
Exercising one's inherent right to an education and a fulfilling profession, regardless of their identities, requires initiative. For some of us, in the face of centuries of inequity and legacies of discrimination in, having support in developing that initiative is crucial, not only for fulfilling our own personal goals, but also those of our broader communities. The goal of this project is to provide young people of all races and genders with that inspiration through inspirational stories, example and discourse.
About The Founder
About the Project
"Key to releasing inspiration for Black and female youth is the willingness of successful Blacks and women to shed our inclination toward professional modesty, and to broadcast and amplify our successes so that the next generation can benefit from the inspiration, and motivation and excitement they bring."
-Dr. Harrison
Testimonials
I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to wonderful guest Dr Rhonda Harrison for sharing her insights and experiences with us. Your perspectives have been and truly valuable for us and I’m sure our listeners will find them equally as compelling and insightful.
Ayantika Saha, Boston University, PhD candidate, Physics
I was deeply moved by the program Dr. Harrison provided. Her interactive approach was creative engaging and very memorable.
Leyna Fouger, Denver University, Computer Science & Legal
Lena Tang, Tufts University, Biology & Community Health