25th Anniversary Summer Bridge Program Alumni Spotlight: Member of first STEM Summer Bridge class, TaShawna Stokes delivers 25th STEM Summer Bridge keynote address and highlights program’s importance

TaShawna Stokes, Auburn class of 2001, delivered the keynote address at the 25^th STEM Summer Bridge closing ceremony on July 1, 2022. However, this was not her first experience with the STEM Summer Bridge program. “I was a member of the ’97 class, which was the first one,” Stokes began, after being introduced by her two children. In her keynote, Stokes spoke about how she felt extreme pressure after graduating high school, feeling that she had to make the “right” decisions as she progressed forward. She had doubts about herself and was not sure which direction to turn for help. Fortunately, the STEM Summer Bridge program was there to offer a “life-changing experience.”

COSAM offers new forensics track option

Students interested in a career in forensics can now pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in chemistry with an option in forensics that includes the potential for hands-on experience and a possible internship through the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences (ADFS).

“Forensic science technicians and criminal investigators are highly in-demand in the state of Alabama,” said Meredith Powell, academic advisor for the College of Sciences and Mathematics, or COSAM. “With 10 ADFS labs, students have an incredible opportunity to apply for internships and, if selected, learn how these labs work while earning their degree.”

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COSAM Today is published by COSAM's Office of Communications and Marketing. Questions? Send an email to mcg0052@auburn.edu.