In recognition of Juneteenth, the Chemistry Department hosted Professor Raychelle Burks, a distinguished forensic chemist, a prominent science communicator on television, in podcasts, and in print media, and a 2026-2027 Fulbright Scholar. Her presentation highlighted her team's latest research on developing colorimetric sensors at the intersection of science and criminal justice.


Before the seminar, two student groups, NOBCChE and commUNITY, co-organized a series of events. A screening was held of ‘Picture A Scientist’, a documentary that uses personal narratives and statistical data to examine systemic gender and racial biases in STEM workplaces. Additionally, a science communication event titled "From the Lab to the Public: Science Communication across Audiences" was held to discuss experiences and ideas in science outreach. The panel featured Prof. Burks, Matthew Adams (the digital content manager in the Dean's Office at LSA), Prof. Kaitlin Raimi (University of Michigan faculty in Public Policy), and Dr. Sarah Derouin (a prolific freelance science journalist). The panelists answered questions and discussed their strategies and experiences in translating scientific research from the laboratory to public audiences.