SeED Conference
From March 30 through April 3, the second annual SeED (Science Equity and Diversity) Conference, “Voices That Shape STEM,” at Penn State University Park will highlight the power of inclusive communication to strengthen belonging, elevate diverse voices, and expand pathways in STEM.
Through sessions on difficult conversations, professional empowerment, identity, and belonging, participants will explore how dialogue fosters discovery and how advocacy drives impact.
A highlight of the conference will be the April 2 keynote, “Embracing Identity: Why We Can’t ‘Stick to the Science,’ ” presented by award-winning journalist Maddie Sofia, who specializes in science communication and will share inclusive strategies for connecting science with diverse audiences and building public trust. The keynote is sponsored by the Johnson Lectureship in Scientific Communication and will be proceeded by a workshop on inclusive communication.
The 2026 SeED Conference will be cohosted by the Eberly College of Science and its Office of Diversity and Inclusion with the College of Engineering.
All Penn Staters are invited to join in amplifying the voices that shape our community—from dialogue to discovery, advocacy to impact.
Conference Keynote
"Embracing Identity: Why We Can’t 'Stick to the Science' "
On April 2, join award-winning science journalist Maddie Sofia for a conversation about the role of identity in science communication. They will share their experience of publicly exploring their own identity as the host of an NPR science podcast and how embracing identity can build trust with audiences. They'll also talk about the power of inclusive science communication and how it is essential to dismantle systems of oppression in scientific spaces.
Session Highlights
“Pathways, Well-Being, and Professional Power in STEM”
Kick off the conference on March 30 with a student-centered experience designed to support both undergraduate and graduate scientists with community, insight, and practical strategies for success. Through concurrent sessions, undergraduates will explore diverse career pathways with faculty, graduate student, and alumni panelists, while graduate students will build skills in negotiation and self-advocacy. The sessions will culminate in a joint networking experience to connect students across career stages and disciplines.
“Her STEM Story: A Women in Science Gallery”
On March 31, celebrate Women’s History Month at “Her STEM Story: A Women in Science Gallery,” a community event showcasing handmade posters created by undergraduate students honoring women scientists and engineers from around the world. This visual celebration will highlight diverse contributions across disciplines and provide opportunities for attendees to reflect on the impact of representation in STEM while joining in an afternoon of inspiration, conversation, and community, recognizing the stories that continue to shape science.
Past Conferences
View the full agenda of the inaugural SeED Conference, featuring keynote speaker Shirley Malcom.
Read "Heard on campus: Shirley Malcom, SEA Change senior adviser."