Devin Horton, Ph.D, the Graduate Diversity Officer for the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines at the University of California, Davis, is among the scientists and leaders recognized in a list of 100 inspiring Black scientists in America, published last month.

The list was published by CrossTalk, the official blog of Cell Press, a publisher of biomedical and physical science research and reviews. The listing and the accompanying article was posted last month in celebration of Juneteenth, and followed up on an earlier list of 100 inspiring Black scientists in America.

CrossTalk developed the list to commemorate "some of the more established scientists, rising stars, and lesser-known scientists across many scientific fields." Antentor O. Hinton, Jr., Ph.D., who compiled the list with contributions from colleagues, wrote, "We hope to achieve a conversation that allows conferences, universities, and institutes to realize that Black scientists are no longer invisible."

Horton has over ten years of experience in teaching and program development, and boasts a strong background in mentoring and student success. A Los Angeles native, she was the first in her family to attend college and the only one to earn a Ph.D. She obtained her B.S. in Biology from Tuskegee University and her Ph.D. in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the University of Michigan.  It is her experience as a first-generation, socioeconomically disadvantaged student that fuels her passion for providing effective and comprehensive student support.

Horton is also the founder of Black Girl Doctorate, a group that provides "a protected, safe space for Black women and femme-identified individuals to have candid conversations about the unique challenges we face in pursuit of a doctoral degree."

A number of other leaders affiliated with UC Davis were among those recognized, including Vice Chancellor of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Renetta Garrison Tull, Ph.D., and postdoctoral scholar Kishana Taylor, Ph.D.

To explore the full list, visit the CrossTalk blog. Students, postdoctoral scholars, faculty and staff may contact Horton by emailing dlhorton@ucdavis.edu.

About Graduate Studies

Graduate Studies at UC Davis includes over 100 dynamic degree programs and a diverse and interactive student body from around the world. Known for our state-of-the-art research facilities, productive laboratories and progressive spirit – UC Davis offers collaborative and interdisciplinary curricula through graduate groups and designated emphasis options, bringing students and faculty of different academic disciplines together to address real-world challenges.

UC Davis graduate students and postdoctoral scholars become leaders in their fields: researchers, teachers, politicians, mentors and entrepreneurs. They go on to guide, define and impact change within our global community.

For information on Graduate Studies’ current strategic initiatives, visit the Graduate Studies strategic plan page.