Dr. Jomo W. Mutegi Make science meaningful and relevant Organization: Sankoré Institute Location: Cleveland, Ohio Website: www.sankoreinstitute.org

Biography:
Jomo W. Mutegi, Ph.D. is Executive Director of Sankoré Institute. Sankoré Institute is a non-profit African-centered science and education research organization, which supports a staff of African Americans who conduct research in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Dr. Mutegi’s own research explores students’ interest in science and science-related careers. He has written over 25 manuscripts published in peer-reviewed journals, popular venues and presented at national and international conferences. His most recent publication is a book on parenting titled: The Greatest Gifts a Parent Can Give.

Dr. Mutegi’s work has is well received by his peers. He has been invited to present his research and ideas on education both here in the United States and abroad, including places such as Mumbai, India and Grahamstown, South Africa. He has received awards acknowledging the quality of his work, including the Outstanding Junior Scholar Award (presented in 2003 by the Brothers of the Academy Institute), and the US Early Career Researcher Award (also presented in 2003, this honor is supported with funding from the National Science Foundation and South Africa’s National Research Foundation). He maintains active membership in five international and national professional associations including: the American Educational Research Association (AERA - the world’s largest educational research association), and the National Association of Research in Science Teaching (NARST - the world’s largest science education research association).

While Dr. Mutegi’s active involvement in research provides insight into STEM and the importance of STEM to people of African descent, his active involvement in community work provides insight into the life conditions of African people. For example, Dr. Mutegi is founder and primary instructor of Sankoré Vanguard, an organization of African American male adolescents designed to prepare young men for responsibility and leadership in Black communities. He also consults and collaborates with schools, churches, and community organizations to assist leaders in making science relevant and meaningful to African American students.

Dr. Jomo W. Mutegi earned a dual bachelor’s degree in chemistry and biology from Gannon University, a doctoral degree in science education from Florida State University, and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh. He has held professorships in science education at both the University of Pittsburgh and Morgan State University; and has taught science and education courses at several other community colleges, colleges and universities.

Availability:
Available to provide workshops, seminars and keynote addresses on topics related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as STEM education and the impact of STEM issues on people of African descent.