To a growing list of accomplishments, 2021 FOSSI scholar Tabia Lee can add another one – published author!
Lee had long wanted to publish a children's book on STEM to inspire and challenge young minds about STEM fields. This spring, that desire became a reality with her STEM Coloring and Activity Book, now available worldwide. She notes, “There are so many parts and layers to STEM. It can be overwhelming for children to understand STEM as a whole. My book breaks down STEM elements and presents them in an engaging and interactive way.”
Lee credits the FOSSI scholarship for her perseverance
Lee credits the FOSSI scholarship with empowering her to keep pushing forward. “So many people believed in me to get to this point, and I am thankful for my corporate sponsor, Merck. I want to pass on the same support to the next generation of STEM leaders.”
Lee’s mentor, Dave Maraldo, commented “Merck is honored to support FOSSI and the talented scholars enrolled in the program. Diversity and inclusion are key to how we operate, how we engage employees, and how we drive competitive advantage; and partnering with FOSSI is one of the ways we are committed to changing the future of STEM. We are extremely proud of Tabia’s accomplishments and are looking forward to following her successes as she continues to grow as a leader.”
More about Lee
A rising junior at Howard University, Lee has not had an easy road, but comments “my experience has taught me that there is no need to dwell, just rise. I am not letting minor setbacks get in my way. Putting your best foot forward is key.”
For almost a year, she was a victim of domestic violence, but will not let the past define her. “I focus on the present and know I have control over my life.”
Lee is a founding member and Program Director of VOCAL (Voices of Creativity and Love), an organization that incorporates healing through art, specifically for those who have been affected by sexual violence.
Tabia's road to advocacy
A fierce advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities, she says “an impairment does not take hold if you have a can-do attitude. I am passionate about disability rights and determined to advocate for those with disabilities like myself, to create positive change in my school.”
"Recently, I founded a Disability Justice Advisory Board under the Campus Health Department for my school's student association. For this board, I aim for purpose, impact, and progress - championing access, inclusivity, and awareness. My goal is to challenge stereotypes to foster support and understanding for all, enabling students to thrive. We desire to break barriers and shake the room with disability stories."
Over the summer, Tabia wanted to experience the advocacy world and was a fellow for an advocacy group based in New Jersey, covering everything from education policy to disability rights.
Moving forward
Last summer, she enjoyed an internship with her FOSSI sponsor company, Merck. She is already making plans for next summer, and has her sights set on an internship in the chemical industry.
Lee’s mantra is that “above all, you must believe in yourself.” She is excited to create a meaningful and lasting impact, and there's no doubt she will do just that!
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