Association for Women in Science-Southern Louisiana Chapter Update
Liz Simon, PhD; President, Association for Women in Science-Southern Louisiana Chapter
AWIS-SL hosted a Professional Lunch & Learn event on May 1, 2026, titled Get Rich Slowly: Investing for Busy Professionals. The interactive one-hour session was led by Dr. Scott Edwards, an enthusiastic supporter
of AWIS-SL, and focused on practical, long-term investing strategies tailored for
professionals balancing demanding careers. Participants explored the fundamentals
of building wealth through investing, with discussions covering topics such as index
funds, exchange-traded funds, diversification, and the power of compounding. The session
sparked lively discussions, with trainees and faculty asking thoughtful questions
about portfolio construction, and strategies for investing with limited time, finances
and financial expertise. The high level of engagement and enthusiasm exceeded the
allotted time, prompting plans for sequels.
The new AWIS-SL Executive Committee was elected and will serve from July 1, 2026, to June 31, 2028:
- President- Sonia Gasparini, PhD, Professor, Neuroscience Center of Excellence, LSU Health New Orleans
- Secretary- Martha L. Cuccia MPH, MCHES, Community Health Science & Policy, LSU Health New Orleans
- Treasurer- Jennifer E. Cameron, PhD, Associate Professor, Microbiology, Genetics and Immunology
- Student Representatives-
- Kathryn Reaux 2nd year PhD candidate in Biomedical Sciences, LSU Health New Orleans
- Mansi Thakrar, 3rd year PhD candidate in Biostatistics, LSU Health New Orleans
- Past President- Liz Simon, Associate Professor, Physiology, LSU Health New Orleans.
We invite anyone who is interested to join the chapter. Membership offers an exceptional opportunity to expand your professional network, engage in meaningful peer mentorship, and be part of a vibrant and supportive community. Many collaborations, and lasting connections have grown out of the relationships formed within AWIS-SL. Whether you're seeking mentorship, collaboration, or simply networking, please consider to be a part of AWIS-SL.
Please contact Sonia Gasparini (SGaspa1@lsuhsc.edu) if you would like to be a member or support AWIS.