NC GlaxoSmithKline Foundation board member Ann Goodnight receives award!

North Carolina GlaxoSmithKline Foundation Inspires Students with STEM Education


On July 30, 2013, the Foundation hosted North Carolina Central University (NCCU) students pursuing studies related to science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) at an event highlighting science careers in the pharma industry. Over forty students were in the audience for the event, which aimed to inform future scientists about the opportunities STEM education can provide.


Students heard from leaders from GlaxoSmithKline who work in various science-related roles, and bring different experiences and backgrounds to their careers.


Martha "Marty" St Clair, Manager of Clinical Virology, shared her career path and experiences as a virologist, including that she was one of a small group of people working on AZT research for the company when she observed the first indications that AZT killed the HIV cells. Eldridge Nartey, Senior Scientist, advised students to "keep it simple," but at the same time not to limit their thoughts and expectations for their future. Other speakers included Renetta Bryant Mills, Investigator and Dana Luke, Manager, Equality & Inclusion Center of Excellence.


The Foundation has provided a $1.5 million grant to support the STEM program at NCCU. Through this program, the Foundation will assist NCCU in its efforts to increase the number of women and minority students who graduate with a STEM degree and pursue STEM careers. The grant builds upon the Foundation's long history of supporting science and math education for students in North Carolina.