Today, February 11 is ‘International Women and Girls In Science Day’.
Ten years ago, the first International Day of Women and Girls in Science recognized a fundamental truth: women’s participation is essential for building a better world through science and technology. Yet today, women still represent just one-third of the global scientific community. Deprived of adequate funding, publishing opportunities and leadership positions in universities, women and girls continue to face an uphill battle in building careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). The more that women are excluded from STEM, the more we limit our collective power to address urgent global challenges, from climate change and food security to public health and technological transformation.
A United Nations report found that to effectively close the gender gap in science requires breaking stereotypes, promoting role models to inspire girls, supporting women’s advancement through targeted programs, and fostering inclusive environments through policies and actions that promote inclusion, diversity and equity.
Today we invite you to meet five women in Fisheries who are helping to break stereotypes and be role models that inspire young girls (and boys) to see themselves in fisheries and natural resources work: Donella Miller, Elaine Harvey, Hayley Nuetzel, Dave’y Lumley, and Danielle Squeochs.
Donella Miller
Fishery Science Department Manager, Columbia River Inter Tribal Fish Commission
“Growing up in a traditional home, gathering our sacred first foods for our homes and our katnum taught me the importance of caring for our land and the gifts that were given to us by the Creator to ensure their existence for future generations. I grew up learning from many strong Native women including my mother and my grandmother as well as the countless aunties and kuthłas who instilled a strong work ethic that set the foundation of who I am and this work that I do. It was never a job but doing what I was meant to do, to care for our first foods and blend that traditional knowledge with the western science that I learned in my time at the University of Idaho.”
Elaine Harvey
Watershed Department Manager at Columbia River Inter Tribal Fish Commission.
Elaine is an alumna of the University of Washington, Central Washington University, and Heritage University. Her work and experience makes her uniquely prepared to combine traditional wisdom and knowledge with Western science. Elaine dedicates her career to conserving and enhancing the First Foods for the Yakama Nation.
“There is a strong teaching that everything is connected on our mother earth. If we negatively impact the water then there will be a trickle-down affect on everything else in the watershed. All of the resources made a way for our people to survive for thousands of years and it is up to us to be their voice and to protect the wildlife, fish, and their habitat. My advice to young women and girls pursuing a career in science is to participate, use your voice, and represent. Volunteer as much as possible to gain experience and it will also help you earn scholarships.”
Hayley Neutzel
Fishery Scientist for the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission.
“Women representation in science is so important because, as with any field or forum, diverse voices lend varied perspectives that encourage more expansive, creative and inclusive thinking. Into the future, I think women will continue to ascend into leadership roles in the sciences, facilitating collaborations that bring folks in to conduct insightful and important research.”
Prior to this role, Hayley held various positions – a Population Biologist at the San Diego Zoo, an educator at a marine science facility and a field technician in Australia. She received her BS degree in Marine Biology at UCLA, and then a MS degree in Ocean Sciences at UCSC. Hayley has been surrounded by strong and inspirational women in her family, educational and professional life and is so incredibly thankful for their support, advocacy, and fearless tenacity.
Danielle Squeochs
PhD, LHg, PE – Hydrogeologist, Yakama Nation Fisheries Resource Management Program.
“I love that my job allows me to tackle meaningful challenges that positively impact the world. The opportunity to continuously learn and grow while contributing to a better future for my children is incredibly fulfilling.”
Danielle currently focuses on Water Resources issues in Central Washington State, including implementing groundwater recharge projects, water rights analysis, and water supply solutions. Danielle is a licensed geologist (WA), hydrogeologist (WA), and professional engineer (OR, WA). She also has a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering from Oregon State University.
Dave’y Lumley
Lamprey Biologist with Yakama Nation Fisheries.
“I grew up in a small town, Glenwood, WA, near Mt. Adams hunting, fishing, and camping- My first job was walking landings and marking out spotted owl habitats and watersheds, ever since then I knew I wanted to work outdoors. I’ve worked with the Yakama Nation Fisheries Pacific Lamprey Project since 2011 starting as a temporary seasonal tech. I later attended WU while working and going to school full time and graduated from CWU with a BA in Science with an Ecology and Evolution Specialization. My current research focuses on Pacific Lamprey restoration, aquaculture, translocation, habitat surveys, traditional ecological knowledge, and educational outreach. One of my favorite aspects of this job is getting to interact and teach others about lamprey and fisheries. The people range in ages from kindergarten through college and come from different communities throughout Washington. I love to see the initial raw reactions of people seeing lamprey for the first time as they get to touch and interact with these amazing fish.”