(235b) 2019 Eminent Engineer Recipient:  Zenaida Otero Gephardt, Rowan University - “Talent and Hard work are essential for success”

Talent and hard work are essential for success, but without mentors and meaningful support, success can elude even the most talented and industrious among us. This is especially true for those who are underrepresented and have historically lacked access to opportunity. The presentation will focus on the importance of mentors throughout the presenter’s career and on how mentoring is an essential investment in the chemical engineering profession and in the global community. As mentors, we see reflected the best of ourselves and continuously improve in our professional and personal lives regardless of career stage. The presenter will also discuss her personal experience with the type of support that is necessary to overcome poverty and disadvantage. Mentoring is key to the broadening of participation in the profession that isessential to identify opportunities in future challenges, and to implement solutions that improve quality of life worldwide.