A first-generation Cuban-American, Sabrina Gonzalez Pasterski is known as “The Next Albert Einstein.” She is a proud graduate of Chicago Public Schools. Throughout her adolescent years, she was fascinated by STEM topics, even building and flying her own single-engine plane at just 14. Pasterski earned her Bachelor’s degree in Physics from MIT (after being waitlisted when she first applied), graduating with a 5.0 GPA and earning her the title of the first female to graduate #1 from MIT Physics. From there, she went on to become a Ph.D. candidate at Harvard at just 21 years old. In 2014, while at Harvard, Pasterski and her colleagues discovered the “spin memory effect”, which may be able to detect and verify the net of effects of gravitational waves. This granted her academic freedom, allowing her to publish an individual paper on her findings in 2015. This individual paper, along with two that she was co-author of, was cited by Stephen Hawking in 2016. Her dissertation was published in Physics Report, making her the second-ever Ph.D. candidate from Harvard to accomplish such a feat. Pasterski earned her Ph.D. in 2019 and completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship at the Princeton Centre for Theoretical Science after graduating.
After Harvard and Princeton, Pasterski turned down a $1.1M offer from Brown University to become an assistant professor to join The Perimeter Institute in 2021. As a high-energy theorist, she researches complicated topics like black holes and spacetime, as well as working on things that are hard for most people to even think about, like Low’s subleading soft theorem as a symmetry of QED, explanations of gravity in the context of quantum mechanics, and discovering infinite dimensional symmetry enhancements of the S-matrix. She’s currently leading a team to encode the universe into a hologram to better understand and unite spacetime with quantum theory as founder and lead investigator of the Celestial Holography Initiative. In addition to her research (which could change how we see the entire universe), Pasterski is an advocate for women in STEM. She’s done incredible work with Let Girls Learn to help girls around the world achieve a quality education, which has received White House recognition. Pasterski posts videos on her YouTube account, PhysicsGirl, and keeps her website up to date with research and happenings. “I don’t know exactly what problem I will or will not end up solving, or what exactly I’ll end up working on in a couple of years,” she said in an interview with Discovery Canada, “The fun thing about physics is that you don’t know exactly what you’re going to do. And normally things just change very quickly — kind of irreversibly — if they’re really right.”
SOURCE: https://sd2.org/sabrina-gonzalez-pasterski-the-next-einstein-in-the-making/
A dedicated public health advocate, Antonia Novello made history as the first female and first Hispanic U.S. Surgeon General in 1990. Antonia Novello was born in Fajardo, Puerto Rico on August 23, 1944. Her father passed away when she was young and her mother worked as a school teacher and principal. Her mother emphasized the importance of education, hard work, and respect and for others, all lessons that Novello took to heart. As a child, Novello suffered from a condition called megacolon, an abnormality of the large intestine. Her family could not afford the surgery that would correct it, so she spent her summers getting interim treatment in a local hospital. Novello was finally able to have the surgery when she was 18, but a second operation was required before the condition was fully cured. This experience left Novello determined to become a doctor, so that she could help other sick children, especially those who struggled to access necessary medical care. An excellent student, Novello attended the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine, graduating in 1970. While in medical school, Novello’s aunt died of kidney failure. Her passing inspired Novello to learn more about kidney disease and the transplant process. Novello went on to specialize in pediatric nephrology, first completing her residency in pediatrics at the University of Michigan (1974) and then her nephrology fellowship at Georgetown University (1976). At the University of Michigan, Novello was the first woman named Pediatrics Intern of the Year.
Novello spent two years in private practice, but found caring for critically ill children emotionally challenging. She felt called to the public health field where she could work to improve health for the broader population. Novello joined the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps and worked for the National Institutes of Health. She helped draft federal legislation for the Organ Transplantation Procurement Act of 1984, which established the national registry for organ matching. In 1982, Novello earned a master’s degree in Public Health from Johns Hopkins University and in 1986, she became a clinical professor of pediatrics at Georgetown University Hospital. Novello moved to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development in 1987, where she focused on pediatric AIDS. President George H.W. Bush took notice of Novello’s work on pediatric AIDS and, in 1990, appointed her the United States’ 14th Surgeon General, the nation’s top health official. She was the first woman and the first Hispanic person to serve as U.S. Surgeon General. Novello focused on the health of women, children, and minorities during her tenure as Surgeon General. She launched initiatives to combat underage drinking and smoking. One of her most effective campaigns sought to end tobacco advertising aimed at children. Novello was early to recognize the need to focus on women with AIDS and to strive to prevent the neonatal transmission of HIV. Novello also promoted early childhood health initiatives such as injury prevention and immunization, and sought to raise awareness about domestic violence in the U.S. In her efforts to improve access to healthcare among minority populations, particularly Latinx Americans, she convened national and regional meetings to address community health needs. Novello earned numerous awards during her storied career as a physician and public health official, including the Public Health Service Commendation Medal (1983); Congressional Hispanic Caucus Medal (1991); Order of Military Medical Merit Award (1992); and the James Smithson Bicentennial Medal (2002).
SOURCE: https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/antonia-novello
Julia Alvarez was born in New York City on March 17, 1950, the second of four daughters. Three months later, her parents returned to their native Dominican Republic after a self-imposed exile from General Rafael Trujillo’s dictatorship. When her parents became involved in an underground movement to overthrow Trujillo, the Alvarez family was forced to flee. They returned to the United States in August of 1960, four months before the founders of the underground, the Mirabal sisters, were brutally murdered by the government. The Alvarez family settled in Queens, N.Y. Alvarez was 10 years old when her family returned to the United States, and she had a difficult time adjusting to immigrant life and learning English. She was homesick and faced alienation and prejudice. “I consider this radical uprooting from my culture, my native language, my country, the reason I began writing,” Alvarez has said. “Language is the only homeland, Czeslow Milosz once observed, and indeed, English, not the United States, was where I landed and sunk deep roots.” When asked why she wrote In the Time of the Butterflies, Alvarez said that “being a survivor placed a responsibility on me to tell the story of these brave young women who did not survive the dictatorship.” In the Time of the Butterflies is a fictional account of the murders of the Mirabal sisters. Alvarez says she wrote the book as a testament to these remarkable women who “have served as models for women fighting against injustices of all kinds.”
In the Time of the Butterflies was a finalist in 1995 for the National Book Critics Circle Award in fiction, selected a Notable Book by the American Library Association in 1994 and chosen as one of the Best Books for Young Adults by the Young Adult Library Services Association and the American Library Association in 1995. The immigrant experience and bicultural identity is the subject of much of Alvarez’s fiction and poetry. Her popular first novel, How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents, was published in 1991. Interrelated stories narrated by the four Garcia sisters describe their difficulties adjusting to New York City after leaving the Dominican Republic. Published in 1997, ¡Yo! focuses on Yolanda Garcia. In the Name of Salome, published in 2000, is based on the life of Dominican political poet Salome Urena and her daughter, Camila. In 1984, Alvarez published Homecomings, a poetry collection about facing her 33rd birthday without a secure job or a family of her own. Her other poetry collections include The Other Side: El Otro Lado (1995) and The Woman I Kept to Myself (2004). A collection of autobiographical essays, Something to Declare, was published in 1998. She has also written young adult books including The Secret Footprints (2000), How Tia Lola Came to (Visit) Stay (2001) and Before We Were Free (2002). A new young adult novel, Finding Miracles, was published in 2004. Alvarez earned her undergraduate degree from Middlebury College in 1971 and a master’s degree in creative writing from Syracuse University in 1975. She taught at various schools including Phillips Andover, the University of Vermont and the University of Illinois. She became a professor of English at Middlebury College in 1988 and has been its writer-in-residence since 1998. In 1989, Alvarez married Bill Eichner, an eye surgeon whose humanitarian medical missions have taken him to many developing nations. Alvarez and Eichner started an organic coffee farm modeling sustainable methods in the Dominican highlands. Profits from the 60-acre farm go to the Alta Gracia Foundation, which promotes literacy programs for the local population.
Luis von Ahn is the co-founder and CEO of the language-learning website and mobile app, Duolingo. He is also the co-creator of CAPTCHA, the challenge–response test used in computing to determine if the user is human, and creator of reCAPTCHA, a service that protects websites from spam. In 2018, von Ahn received the $500K Lemelson-MIT Prize for his groundbreaking inventions in global computer technology. Luis von Ahn was born and raised in Guatemala to physician parents. As a child, von Ahn always had a strong interest in science and computers. Growing up in Guatemala, von Ahn experienced a system where better educational opportunities were limited to the wealthy. These limitations were particularly inhibiting for those who did not speak English. Von Ahn's mother sent him to a private English language school, which gave him an advantage over underserved people in the country. This personal advantage later inspired him to help others who were not as fortunate. Von Ahn received a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Duke University in 2000, and earned a doctorate in computer science from Carnegie Mellon University in 2005. While at Carnegie Mellon, von Ahn studied under his mentor Manuel Blum. Together, they co-coined the term “CAPTCHA”, an acronym short for “Completely Automated Public Turing test to tell Computers and Humans Apart”. This test looks like a bunch of twisted letters to determine if a computer user is a human or a bot. Later in 2005, he became a faculty member in the School of Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon University. During his time there, von Ahn coined the term “reCAPTCHA,” which is seen in the form of Google’s “I am not a robot” verification for cybersecurity. It is the same service that asks computer users to click all photos that contain cars, cross-walks, etc. He sold this service to Google in 2009.
Inspired by his upbringing, in 2011, von Ahn co-founded Duolingo along with graduate student Severin Hacker, to make language education free and accessible to everyone. This innovation has grown to become the most popular language-learning platform worldwide. As of 2020, the platform offered nearly 40 languages and had around 40 million active users each month. Following its success, von Ahn decided to further improve the language service. He noticed the many problems people faced trying to get a job in an English-speaking country or international company. They must pass an English proficiency test, which usually costs $250 in addition to travel costs. Von Ahn himself had to fly from Guatemala to El Salvador to take his test in order to apply to college in the U.S. Duolingo’s English certification test can be taken from home for $49, in contrast to the $250 required for traditional proctored tests. By 2021, over 3000 institutions worldwide accepted Duolingo’s test as part of their admissions process. Luis von Ahn holds multiple patents and has been published in many scientific papers. His research and work in the field of technology have earned him international recognition and numerous awards. In 2005, at the age of 28, he was recognized as a MacArthur Fellow for his work in artificial intelligence and natural intelligence to address problems of profound theoretical and practical importance. His many accolades include being awarded the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers in 2012, and the Distinguished Leadership Award for Innovation and Social Impact by the Inter-American Dialogue in 2017. Currently, von Ahn is the CEO of Duolingo. He sits on the board of directors of the U.S. Foundation of the University of the Valley of Guatemala, where he helps shape the future of education in the country. He has given talks about Duolingo to young people at universities in Turkey, India, Guatemala, Chile, Argentina, Mexico, and Costa Rica. Duolingo also hosts Creative Technology Nights at their offices to inspire middle school girls to pursue careers in STEM. Most recently, in early 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic shuttered schools, Duolingo moved up its release of a literacy app for children ages three to six years old in Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the U.K. and the U.S. This new app, Duolingo ABC, combats problems of global illiteracy and gives more children the opportunity for social mobility through learning to read and write English.
Rita Moreno is a Puerto Rican-born American actress, dancer, and singer who accomplished the rare feat of winning the four major North American entertainment awards (EGOT): Emmy (1977, 1978), Grammy (1972), Oscar (1962), and Tony (1975). She was also the first Hispanic woman to receive an Oscar (Academy Award). In 1935, after her parents divorced, Rosita Alverio moved to New York City with her mother, who eventually remarried. She later began using her stepfather’s surname, Moreno. As a youth, she took dance lessons, and she later dubbed voices for child stars in films released to Spanish-speaking countries. In 1945, at age 13, she made her Broadway debut in Skydrift. Her first big-screen appearance was in So Young, So Bad (1950). She was credited as Rosita Moreno, but soon thereafter she took the first name Rita. Although Moreno appeared in several notable films—including the musicals Singin’ in the Rain (1952) and The King and I (1956), playing a starlet and a slave, respectively—her early career was hampered by studios wanting to cast her in stereotypical ethnic roles or as a sexpot. Partly because of professional frustrations—though largely because of a tumultuous relationship with Marlon Brando—she attempted suicide in 1961. That year, however, Moreno received critical acclaim as the fiery and cynical Anita in West Side Story. For her performance—which highlighted her energetic dancing—Moreno won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
Despite the success, Moreno continued to struggle for good roles, and her film work was limited. Later movies included Summer and Smoke (1961), Carnal Knowledge (1971), and Slums of Beverly Hills (1998). In 2021 she appeared in Steven Spielberg’s acclaimed remake of West Side Story, and in 2023 she joined an all-star cast in 80 for Brady, a comedy about a group of friends whose love for the New England Patriots and quarterback Tom Brady leads to a raucous Super Bowl weekend. In 1964 Moreno returned to Broadway, appearing in The Sign in Sidney Brustein’s Window. She continued to occasionally perform on the stage, and in 1975 she won a Tony for her portrayal of Googie Gomez in The Ritz. Her other notable stage work included The Odd Couple (1985–86), a revival of the Neil Simon play but featuring female leads. In 2011 she starred in the critically acclaimed Rita Moreno: Life Without Makeup, which was staged in California and showcased her irrepressible nature. Moreno also frequently appeared on television. From 1971 to 1977 she starred in the children’s educational series The Electric Company, where she became noted for the catchphrase “Hey, you guys!” In 1972 she received a Grammy for her work on the show’s album. An appearance on The Muppet Show earned her an Emmy in 1977, and with that award she became the second woman and third person to win an EGOT; earlier that year Helen Hayes had accomplished the feat. In 1978 Moreno claimed her second Emmy, for her work on The Rockford Files. She later appeared as a nun in the prison drama Oz (1997–2003), and she had guest roles in numerous series, including The Golden Girls, Miami Vice, Murphy Brown, and Ugly Betty. Moreno also provided the voice of the title character in the PBS series Where on Earth Is Carmen Sandiego? She later appeared as the matriarch of a Cuban American family in One Day at a Time (2017–20), a remake of Norman Lear’s 1970s sitcom of the same name. Moreno’s other notable awards included the Presidential Medal of Freedom (2004), and in 2015 she was named a recipient of a Kennedy Center Honor. She published an eponymous memoir in 2013. Rita Moreno: Just a Just a Girl Who Decided to Go for It (2021) is a documentary about her life and career.
Gen. Richard Edward Cavazos was the first Hispanic four-star general in the United States Army. He was born on Jan. 31, 1929, in Kingsville, Texas, where he was also raised. He graduated from Texas Technological College in 1951 with a degree in geology, but he chose to follow in his father’s footsteps and join the Army. After his graduation, Cavazos received his commission. During the Korean War, he led the renowned 65th Infantry Regiment, also known as the Borinqueneers, the Army’s only all-Hispanic unit attached to the 3rd Infantry Division. Throughout his 33 years of distinguished service in the military, including serving in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, Cavazos demonstrated exceptional leadership and bravery. Because of this, he earned multiple service medals, including two Distinguished Service Crosses, a Silver Star, five Bronze Stars and a Purple heart. The Distinguished Service Cross is the second-highest military award that can be given to a member of the Army for extraordinary heroism in combat. Cavazos firmly believed in the moral ascendancy of leaders and emphasized the importance of a commanding officer who could instill complete trust and faith in their troops to achieve victory. This guiding principle influenced his actions throughout his military career, including in his early years in South Korea. During the Korean War, he was a platoon leader of Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment.
One example of Cavazos’ commitment to this principle was demonstrated in February 1953. Leading a small group of soldiers, Cavazos encountered enemy fire but continued alone to capture a wounded enemy soldier who had been abandoned following an earlier skirmish. Despite the danger, Cavazos’ determination to uphold his beliefs and maintain his soldiers’ trust was unwavering. He was awarded the Silver Star for his bravery. Cavazos exhibited his leadership skills once more in June 1953. He directed his troops in an attack on Hill 412 as part of a strategy to protect Outpost Harry, a crucial defensive position in the vicinity. The assault was met with fierce enemy artillery fire, causing many soldiers to suffer casualties. Despite this, Cavazos defended Outpost Harry for three arduous hours. When ordered to withdraw to friendly lines, he refused to abandon the fallen and injured soldiers, repeatedly rescuing them, even though he was wounded. The Army awarded him the Distinguished Service Cross for his bravery and selflessness. In the autumn of 1953, Cavazos returned to the United States and was stationed at Fort Hood (now Fort Cavazos), Texas. He continued to serve in the military, rising through the ranks to become a lieutenant colonel. In 1967, he was deployed to Vietnam, where he assumed command of the 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment. Cavazos once again demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of his troops. Recognizing his exceptional leadership, he was honored with a second Distinguished Service Cross. In addition to his combat experience, Cavazos held several important positions in the Army. He served as the commander of the 2nd Infantry Division in South Korea, commander of the 1st Infantry Division in Germany and commander of the United States Army Forces Command at Fort McPherson, Georgia. He retired from the Army in 1984 after 33 years of service. Cavazos’ selflessness and bravery in putting the safety of his fellow soldiers first earned him a place in history as a true American hero and an inspiration to all those who have served in the United States military.
SOURCE: https://www.army.mil/article/266643/from_cattle_ranch_to_general_the_incredible_journey_of_richard_e_cavazos
