Congradulations to Dr. Pamela A. Padilla, professor of UNT Biological Sciences, Associate Vice President for Research & Innovation, and Associate Dean of Research & Graduate Studies, who was recently recognized on a list of the top 100 inspiring Hispanic/Latinx scientists in the US by Cell Mentor. This list--selected based on scholarly achievements, mentoring excellence, and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion--represents only a subset of the scientific role models in the community.

Cell Mentor says the aim in assembling these names is to put an end to the harmful myth that there are not enough diverse scientists to give seminars, serve as panelists, or fill scientific positions. The scientists recognized encompass careers within academia, government, and biotech and showcase individuals committed to serving diverse student populations at Hispanic-serving institutions.

Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor once said, "Until we get equality in education, we won't have an equal society." Though aimed at society as a whole, her words also apply to our scientific society.

Until the scientific community makes dedicated efforts to include minority scholars, science will never be an equal society. While the Supreme Court recently ruled to block attempts to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, the fight against systemic racism is a long journey that extends far beyond this case. We must all work to ensure scientists from all walks of life are supported and welcomed into the scientific community in order to build a landscape that more accurately represents the makeup of society.

To learn more and see the full list of recognized scientists, visit http://crosstalk.cell.com/blog/100-inspiring-hispanic-latinx-scientists-...