Dr. Jess Wade: Advocating Diversity and Shaping the Future of Science Through Humble Activism
Dr. Jess Wade, a physicist and British Empire Medal recipient, has written more than 2,000 Wikipedia pages spotlighting overlooked women and minority scientists.
This post originally appeared in People by Jason Hahn on October 18, 2022.
In the often-unseen corners of scientific achievement lie the unsung heroes, those whose remarkable contributions remain overshadowed. Enter Dr. Jess Wade, a force of change in the scientific community, on a relentless mission to rewrite the narrative of recognition and representation.
In 2017, Dr. Wade, an accomplished scientist herself, noticed a glaring absence in the acknowledgment of figures like climatologist Kim Cobb and others who were making significant strides in their fields. Recognizing this void, she decided to cast a spotlight on the historically marginalized within the scientific domain. Her aim was to celebrate pioneers like Clarice Phelps, the first African-American woman to unearth a new element.
Dr. Wade’s passion doesn’t stop at recognition; it extends to mentoring and empowering young girls in STEM, planting seeds of inspiration to ensure their lasting presence in the scientific sphere.
Having authored over 2,000 Wikipedia pages, she actively combats the underrepresentation of female and minority scientists, one profile at a time. She also directly challenges the systemic oversight that often sidelines exceptional talent from marginalized groups. But Dr. Wade doesn’t just point out the problem; she’s an advocate for systemic change. Fearlessly, she addresses biases ingrained within academic institutions and judging panels, demanding a shift in the very foundation upon which recognition is built.
As she continues to blaze trails and rewrite history, Dr. Wade stands as a testament to the power of unwavering dedication and the transformative impact of individual commitment in creating a more diverse and inclusive scientific landscape.
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