Snapshot:
Marisela Chevez

Title: Communications Specialist.

Duties: In addition to supporting Scripps Research media relations, Chevez oversees the institute's Educational Outreach Program in California. The program aims to promote and improve science literacy, enhance science teachers' professional development, and inspire students to pursue careers in the life sciences, with special emphasis placed on encouraging students from cultures and ethnic backgrounds traditionally underrepresented in the sciences.

Started at Scripps Research: November 2005.

Background: Chevez grew up in Los Angeles as part of a family of eight. She earned her B.A. in history from the University of California, Berkeley—the first person in her family to attend college.  After graduation, she worked five years with the San Diego affiliate of the American Civil Liberties Union, beginning as a part-time receptionist and working her way up to media relations associate.

What Attracted Her to Scripps Research: The opportunity to make a difference. "One educational experience can change the life of a student," she says, "then that student in turn influences his or her family and community." Chevez was also drawn to the institute because of its scientific work. "My younger brother had leukemia when he was six. He's now 16 and healthy because of advances made at research centers like Scripps."

Goals for the Educational Outreach Program: Recruiting volunteers for 2006 programs. "Right now, we need scientists to sign up to host summer interns in their labs," she says. "The spring tutorials and teacher seminars are already coming together, thanks to the terrific efforts of graduate students Sarah Voytek and Doug Fowler." In the future, Chevez is interested in exploring the possibilities for new partnerships with museums and associations in the region.

Family Life: Chevez lives with her husband, "Mick," two dogs, Santiago and Violet, and cat, Rita, and enjoys frequent visits with family throughout San Diego and Los Angeles.

Extracurriculars: Volunteer work for the César E. Chávez Commemoration Committee, San Diego Coalition for Reproductive Choice, and California Marriage Equality Campaign. Also, gardening (especially with California native plants), swimming, body surfing, and (just recently) long-distance running.

Send comments to: mikaono[at]scripps.edu

Communications Specialist Marisela Chevez is recruiting scientists from Scripps Research labs to host summer interns.