DeLauren McCauley is a chemist who is passionate about bridging the gap and evoking excellence for underrepresented minorities interested in all STEM disciplines. Hailing from “The Gate City” in Greensboro, NC, she holds a PhD in Analytical Chemistry and currently serves as a chemist for the federal government. Her career spans from involvement in government, NPOs, private industry, and years of experience in academia. As STEMPIRE continues to empower and engage STEM professionals, her personal goal is to be the catalyst for equality starting with the educational pipeline. When she is not volunteering and advocating for her community, DeLauren is an avid DIYer and newly-minted foodie.

Dr. Sheena Young’s passion for science and her understanding of the need for a network to specifically support professionals of color in STEM has inspired her to help found the STEMPIRE organization. She currently serves as a Senior Program Manager/ Analytical Chemist at MRIGlobal and holds a PhD in environmental engineering from University of Arizona, a master in chemistry from University of Maryland, Baltimore County, a master in environmental engineering from Johns Hopkins University, and a bachelor in chemistry from Spelman College. She has years of experience working in the laboratory in academia, government, and industry; and hopes STEMPIRE facilitates the continued support of rising scientists in her field through her tutoring and mentorship. In her free time she is an advocate for mental health awareness and enjoys traveling, spending time with her family, and playing with her dog.

Dr. Ashley Queen is a woman ready to inspire and change the world around her. Born and raised in Maryland in what is coined as the DMV area, she has the exposure to the unique social, political, and professional landscape of living near the nation’s capital. She has a Bachelor of Science in biology with a minor in chemistry from Coppin State University. She further earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Microbiology from Howard University. Dr. Queen has worked in the government, non-profit, and academia landscapes. She is a public health and regulatory professional with experience in biologic drug application review, pathogen surveillance, health disparities work, and in genome wide association studies. She currently serves as the Director of Microbiology and Public Health for the American Cleaning Institute. Dr. Queen is a mentor and advocate for budding and early career scientists; always eager to support the next generation of STEMPIRE leaders! She enjoys kickboxing, traveling, DIY projects, and spending time with loved ones.