Diverse Perspectives welcomes Darius Johnson, the Coordinator for the Academic Programs Office
Heather Soulen: Driving Change at the Northeast Fisheries Science Center
Heather Soulen, a Georgia native with a diverse academic background, has made a significant impact at the Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC) since joining the team in April 2022.
Soulen, who was born and raised in Americus, Georgia, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in mass communications from Savannah State University. She furthered her education with a Master of Education degree from Georgia Southern University and a Juris Doctorate degree from Atlanta's John Marshall Law School.
At the NEFSC, Soulen serves as the academic programs coordinator, a role she found through IBSS, a contracting company for NOAA Fisheries and other federal agencies. One of her key responsibilities is developing and tracking programs like the Woods Hole Partnership Education Program (PEP), which offers underrepresented students practical experience in marine and ocean sciences.
Since starting her position, Soulen has created a system to track graduates of NOAA internships and recruit new members. She has also organized virtual and in-person information sessions to provide students with insights about the internship programs.
Soulen's dedication to students extends beyond recruitment. She values the time, care, and attention given to students during their internship experience. At the end of their internship, students create scientific presentations based on their research, a testament to the educational value of the programs.
Soulen's efforts have not gone unnoticed. In August 2022, she received the Deputy's Award, which she sees as a testament to the potential for growth in her current position.
In addition to her work at the NEFSC, Soulen serves on several committees, including the Woods Hole Black History Month Committee, NOAA Fisheries' Education Council, and local community committees. She values Black History Month as a reminder of past accomplishments, current work needed, and future goals, and as a time to appreciate African American history and contributions.
When she's not working, Soulen enjoys hiking, motorcycle riding, and exploring new cuisine and eateries. Two of her favorite hiking locations in Georgia are Stone Mountain and Kennesaw Mountain, which are also great for motorcycle riding.
One of the programs Soulen is particularly proud of is the IN FISH Program, which is two years old and is being used to meet the needs of today's students. Former interns are being brought in to share their experiences with potential IN FISH and PEP students, providing a unique admission style that allows for working with students from various backgrounds.
Soulen is also working with the communications staff to redesign the Academic Programs Office webspace, aiming to make it more accessible and informative for prospective students and the general public.
While specific details about Soulen's background and role at the NEFSC are not widely available, it is clear that her dedication, hard work, and commitment to education are making a positive impact at the Science Center.
- Heather Soulen's dedication to education and self-development, as demonstrated by her varied degrees and roles like the academic programs coordinator at the Northeast Fisheries Science Center, contributes significantly to her personal growth and the growth of underrepresented students via programs like the Woods Hole Partnership Education Program.
- Soulen's commitment to learning extends beyond her professional role, as she frequently organizes educational sessions and encourages interns to present their research findings, fostering a culture of continuous learning and personal growth at the Northeast Fisheries Science Center.
