Your Voice, Your Ideas, Your Contribution Matter: The Unsung Heroes of STEAM

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Innovation doesn't happen in isolation. The world we live in today is built on the ideas, contributions, and experiments of countless individuals whose names may not be known but whose impact has shaped our lives. This message celebrates the collective nature of innovation, emphasizing that every voice matters, every story matters, and every contribution can change the world, even if it goes unrecognized today.

It's crucial to impart this truth to the younger generation, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEAM). Many of the most significant breakthroughs we rely on today were not sudden revelations, but the result of a gradual process—one question, one experiment, and one overlooked genius at a time. Understanding this cumulative nature of science is key to appreciating the value of every contribution.

Teaching the History of Discovery:

As a science teacher, for example, I often begin new units—whether about matter or scientific principles—by teaching the history behind foundational theories. Two favorites of mine are the atomic theory and the DNA model. These are science stories and stories about persistence, revision, and human ingenuity. They are proof that innovation is a process.

One story I share is that of Oswald Avery, whose experiments in the 1940s demonstrated that DNA, not protein, is the substance of heredity. Avery's findings laid the groundwork for what became one of the most significant scientific models of all time: the double helix structure of DNA (McCarty, 1985).

This discovery, however, was only possible because of several contributions, including those from Rosalind Franklin, whose X-ray diffraction images were crucial to Watson and Crick's model. Yet Franklin never received the Nobel Prize, and her name was omitted from textbooks for decades. Similarly, Esther Lederberg, who developed the replica plating technique fundamental to bacterial genetics and antibiotic resistance research, received far less recognition than her male counterparts.

These stories help students understand that science is cumulative. Every contribution, every failed trial, and every new insight adds a brick to the foundation of progress.

Celebrating Overlooked Pioneers:

Did you know that many pioneers or significant contributors to the STEAM fields and innovation we enjoy today were historically marginalized due to gender, race, or ethnicity? Consider Percy Julian, a brilliant African American chemist who synthesized critical medicinal compounds like cortisone and physostigmine from plants. Despite his groundbreaking work and over 130 patents, Julian faced racial discrimination that limited his recognition during his lifetime.

Another hero is Nettie Stevens, who, in 1905, discovered that sex is determined by specific chromosomes and not environmental factors as previously believed. Though her research formed the basis for the study of sex inheritance, her work was initially overshadowed by a male colleague. Today, however, her contributions are finally being acknowledged in scientific literature.

And then there is Tu Youyou, a Chinese scientist who discovered artemisinin in the 1970s—a compound that transformed malaria treatment and saved millions of lives. Despite her 2015 Nobel Prize win, her name is still unknown globally.

The Importance of Representation:

One of the most powerful stories I share with students is that of Katherine Johnson, the African American mathematician whose calculations were critical to NASA's Mercury and Apollo missions. Her role was obscured for decades—until the 2016 film Hidden Figures brought it to light. Over 90% of U.S. high school science curricula today include her name.

Representation is a powerful tool. When young students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, see scientists who look like them, they can also believe, 'I can do this too.' This realization is a significant step towards inspiring the next generation of scientists.

Why Their Stories Matter Today:

By learning about these hidden figures, students realize that science is not just a series of facts and formulas—it's a human journey of discovery. And in that journey, every voice, every contribution, and every idea matters.

We need to tell these stories more often—not just during Black History Month or Women's History Month, but as part of the everyday fabric of STEAM education. When students learn that change is made not just by a few great minds but by a collective of courageous thinkers who persevered even when overlooked, they begin to understand the deeper value of their potential.

This is how we build a future of innovation that includes everyone. It starts with letting every child know that their ideas, voices, and stories matter. Use them to effect positive change and make the world better for all humanity.

For more on how science is strengthened by the people and institutions that support it, read our companion piece: "Science Is Only as Strong as the People Behind It"—an op-ed reflecting the 75th Anniversary of the National Science Foundation (NSF), https://www.linkedin.com/posts/dr-ayo-olufade-phd-b5273b4b_science-is-only-as-strong-as-the-people-behind-activity-7332578743028248577-YhTo?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAqcB64BBEp_-RNryNCmpBiHTxsfv_thIoI.

Reference:

 McCarty, M. (1985). The transforming principle: Discovering that genes are made of DNA. W.W. Norton & Company.

#UnsungSTEMHeroes

Your journey in STEAM is more than just equations and experiments; it's a testament to the power of curiosity and resilience. Let every challenge be your stepping stone, every setback your teacher. You can transform your world and the world around you with passion, purpose, and courage. Your work has the power to make a significant impact. Be fearless, be relentless, and let your light lead the way. Choose STEAM Careers: Shape the Future, Design Your Destiny! ~ Dr. Ayo Olufade, PhD