The Dr. Carla Montgomery Women in STEM Award recognizes faculty and graduate students who have advanced STEM research while uplifting women through teaching, mentorship and community engagement. As a founding partner of the lecture series, NIU Libraries is proud to support this initiative and celebrate this year’s recipients, who are honored each April for their contributions to inclusive excellence in STEM.
Faculty awardee Jen Koop (center left) has made a profound impact since joining NIU in 2019. A dedicated mentor, she has guided multiple women graduate students and numerous undergraduates, many of whom have continued to advanced degrees. Known for her approachable and supportive presence, Koop fosters inclusive learning environments and highlights the contributions of women in science in her teaching. Her outreach efforts, including K–12 engagement and participation in Skype a Scientist, inspire young students to envision themselves in STEM careers while her leadership has helped strengthen a culture of belonging within her department.
Fellow faculty honoree Nicole LaDue (far left) is recognized for her transformative work in STEM education and student success. As a principal investigator on a $1 million grant funded by the National Science Foundation, she has expanded access and opportunity for students from underrepresented and low-income backgrounds. She has strengthened graduate education through innovative teaching assistant training and redesigned courses to incorporate inclusive, research-based practices. Widely regarded as a trusted advisor, LaDue combines high expectations with meaningful support, helping students build confidence and succeed in STEM pathways.
Graduate student awardee Yessenia Chaves (far right) has demonstrated exceptional dedication to mentorship and outreach. She has guided seven undergraduate research projects presented at departmental and university–wide conferences, preparing students to confidently share their work. Beyond research, she leads STEM festival activities, engages with local classrooms and supports initiatives like Brain Awareness Week, helping spark interest in science among younger students and peers alike.
Graduate student honoree Dorcas Joseph (center right) is recognized for her leadership, mentorship and commitment to building inclusive scientific communities. She actively supports her peers by sharing opportunities such as the National Society of Black Physicists conference and programs from the OPTICA Foundation, helping others expand their professional networks. In addition to her outreach and service, she excels as a teaching assistant, fostering an encouraging and inclusive environment in the physics laboratory.
Together, these awardees embody the spirit of the Dr. Carla Montgomery Women in STEM Award through their dedication to mentorship, inclusion and excellence.
