Research Symposium

BIO

Currently a junior at FSU and originally from Weston, Florida. My research interests include examining historical photographs, narratives, and exploring the interplay that women and gender roles have in photography over time. Throughout my time within the UROP Program, I have learned the process of collecting information by analyzing different databases and archives. I have also worked to uncover systemic issues in my research, with hopes of advocating for more diverse representation. I am so incredibly grateful for the support I have been given from everyone involved whether it was family, friends, my colloquium leaders, my assistantship mentor (Ron Doel) and co-researchers.

In my free time I enjoy writing and expressing myself through various art forms such as photography, writing, 2-D drawing, and painting. I am also part of FSU's Mock Trial Program and work as the Vice President of the Pre-Law Society and Leading Women of Tomorrow at FSU. Eventually, I hope to go to law school and begin my career as a lawyer with the intent of starting my own law firm.

Women in Science: Photographic Narratives and Historical Gender Systems

Abstract

During the Cold War, photographers joined journalists in the United States to document the accomplishments of the scientific community. Their aim, aligned with that of leading government agencies, major institutions, and influential media outlets, was to put forth positive narratives to the globe during a period of crisis about the uplifting role that science and technology played in democratic societies. But which people were held up as scientists—were women also included? In this project, we researched such themes as gender diversity and inclusion. Our range of archival sources was large: it included the extensive collection of historical photographs maintained by the U.S. Information Agency, the LIFE and LOOK magazine story files (Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.), and the company archives of General Electric, headquartered in Schenectady, New York. These photographs, intended to illustrate stories to be shared with the American people as well as foreign audiences, reveal important social and cultural insights about the practice of science and messages that leaders sought to share with the world.

Keywords: History, Science, Cold War, Women