The University of Louisiana at ɫAV hosted the inaugural NIIMBL eXperience for Educators, one of only six institutions nationwide selected to offer the prestigious program designed to connect K–12 educators with the rapidly growing and changing biopharmaceutical industry.
Held in early June at UL ɫAV's New Iberia Research Center, the event welcomed nearly 20 participants for a day of hands-on learning and industry engagement. The event featured a keynote by Joe Spell, CEO of Tides Medical and panel discussions. Real-world lab activities included the use of micropipettes and calculations for buffer preparation, hematology (observing slides under microscopes) and streaking techniques that are useful for microbial isolation.
Panel discussions focused on careers, related industries and job readiness for the range of roles in biopharmaceuticals. Panelists included: Jane Fontenot and Dr. Gaurav Raikhy, NIRC; Angela Consani, Bioscience Core Skills Institute; Megan Argoe, NIIMBL; Doug Payne, Tides Medical; Dr. Rafael Hernandez, UL ɫAV; Nadlyn Rideaux, South Louisiana Community College; and Mike Tarantino, Iberia Economic Development Authority.
As a Carnegie R1 institution, UL ɫAV is uniquely positioned to strengthen Louisiana's biomanufacturing workforce. By connecting educators with industry and research leaders, the NIIMBL eXperience helped inspire scientific curiosity, build STEM literacy and expose students to diverse careers in modern health care and advanced manufacturing.
“I was honored to speak at NIIMBL eXperience and encouraged by the passion and engagement of the educators in attendance,” said Joe Spell, CEO of Tides Medical. “The University of Louisiana at ɫAV is making a meaningful investment in the future of Louisiana's biotechnology industry by helping teachers connect students to careers that can change lives, strengthen our economy, and drive innovation for decades to come.”
“As biomanufacturing continues to transform the economy in the U.S. and beyond, UL ɫAV is committed to advancing the talent, research and partnerships needed to ensure Louisiana is at the forefront of this rapidly growing industry,” said Dr. Kumer Das, the University’s interim vice president for Research and Innovation. “We're thankful to NIIMBL for this opportunity.”
“The day was filled with valuable information to bring back to my students,” said Rachel Melancon, a teacher in the ɫAV Parish School System. “The networking alone was very helpful let alone the hands-on opportunities we received.”
Photo caption: Participants in the NIIMBL eXperience for Educators examine specimens during a hands-on learning exercise. (Photo credit: University of Louisiana at ɫAV)