Community Outreach

The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members. - Coretta Scott King

The Graduate School at ODU is excited to celebrate Black History Month by spotlighting graduate students and their incredible achievements!

Today's spotlight features Rebecca Richardson, a student in the College of Sciences pursuing her Doctorate in Chemistry.

Rebecca shares what Black History Month means to her, reflecting on the inspiration she found in Hidden Figures and her journey to break barriers in STEM.

#BHM #StudentSpotlight
#Gradlife #ODUGradlife
#BlackHistoryMonth

February 4, 2025

BHM ODU Spotlight

2024-2025 Girl Scout Bridging Ceremony
Guest Speaker

Girl Scout Bridging Ceremonies celebrate a scout’s progression from one level of scouting to the next—an important rite of passage that honors growth, leadership, and readiness for new challenges. In June 2025, I was invited to serve as an honorary guest speaker at a local bridging ceremony in Norfolk, Virginia. As a lifelong Girl Scout and newly minted Ph.D. in Biochemistry, I shared a personal message on perseverance, integrity, and the lasting impact of the Girl Scout Promise and Law. My speech encouraged young scouts to lead with courage, strive for excellence, and embrace their unique journeys with confidence and purpose.