Deborah Ajeboriogbon

What’s the most important leadership lesson you’ve learned?

Leadership is about creating opportunities for others to grow.

What do you consider to be your most important career achievement or milestone?

Transitioning from a chemistry background into the field of Child, Youth, and Family Studies while finding meaningful ways to connect both disciplines: STEM to STEAM.

What do you aspire to accomplish in your career and why? What obstacles will you overcome?

To become a researcher, educator, and policy advocate who improves the lives of children and families, particularly in underserved communities.

Describe an amazing opportunity in your STEM career.

I helped organize and participate in a family engagement event called Science and Snacks. Families and children explored scientific concepts through hands-on activities such as oil-and-water experiments and baking soda reactions.

How was AWIS helped you professionally and/or personally?

AWIS has provided a valuable community of women who are passionate about science, leadership, and innovation. Through AWIS, I have gained access to professional development opportunities, networking, mentorship, and inspiration from women pursuing diverse STEM careers

What is your favorite word? (only one word)

Curiosity.

How do you define it?

Curiosity is the desire to ask questions, seek understanding, and explore new possibilities. It is the motivation to learn, discover, and continuously grow.

How has this word influenced or inspired your career?

Curiosity has been the driving force behind my career journey. It motivates my research interests, and shapes how I engage with children and families. I believe curiosity is at the heart of both scientific discovery and lifelong learning.

How does AWIS impact your career journey?

AWIS encourages me to embrace interdisciplinary pathways and reminds me that there are many ways to contribute to STEM. AWIS provides opportunities to connect with accomplished women, develop leadership skills, and gain confidence as I pursue a career that combines science, research, and policy.

What are you currently reading or listening to?

I enjoy listening to podcasts and professional conversations focused on leadership, education, family well-being, and evidence-based practices that support children and families.

What do you consider the best professional or personal advice you’ve ever received?

Stay curious and never stop learning. This advice has encouraged me to embrace new opportunities, pursue interdisciplinary interests, and view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than barriers.

Deborah Ajeboriogbon is a graduate student in Child, Youth and Family Studies at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and a research asssistant with Educare of Lincoln. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and is passionate about connecting science, research, and community engagement to support children’s development and family well-being. Her work focuses on translating data into meaningful insights that inform programs, practice, and policy.