SMI

Science & Math Innovators, Inc. (SMI) is a 501(c)3 organization founded to:

 

1. Present age appropriate scientific principles

2. Develop the analytical and critical thinking skills needed in STEM

3. Dispel the myth of how a ‘Scientist’ looks

4. Encourage participants to view themselves as innovators and inventors

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Our Aim

To engage students in deep learning in order that they gain and maintain scientific knowledge.

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Our Founders

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Regina Pope-Ford, PhD, PMP, is a graduate of North Carolina A&T University and currently works as a Program Director at the National Science Foundation (NSF) where she was a former AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellow. She was previously an Assistant Professor of Industrial Engineering at Bradley University.  Dr. Pope-Ford offers more than 30 years of experience as a practicing Electrical and Industrial Engineer, and Project Manager.  She has developed summer enrichment camps in Phoenix, AZ and developed curricula as a member of the Los Angeles Council of Black Engineers and Scientists (LACBES) and Arizona Council of Black Engineers and Scientists (ACBES) for engineering and computer enrichment programs, respectively.  

 

Maquisha Mullins, PhD earned her doctorate from North Carolina A&T State University (research interests include: STEM education and STEM leadership identity).  Dr. Mullins has worked with children, youth and young adults for over 25 years and has been honored for her work by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Syracuse and the Northeastern Conference of Seventh-day Adventist.  Her roles in service to young people have taken the form of tutor, mentor, facilitator, as well as youth program director.

 

Kenisha Ford, PhD, is a Physicist working as an engineer with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and graduate of both Spelman College and Howard  University.  Dr. Ford was involved for 6 years as a Physics instructor at Howard University and Anne Arundel Community College. She has worked as an instructor at youth summer enrichment programs for Digital Media Academy at the George Washington University location where she taught Robotics and Introduction to Science and Engineering to students ages 7-12.  She served as an instructor and assisted in the development of the Physics and Chemistry curriculum for ages 5-18 for the Beacon Light summer enrichment program in Phoenix, AZ.

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