Beyond The Bench: Stemulating Career Conversations

In this enlightening episode of STEMulating Conversations, Dr. Q sits down with Samaad Wes Keys, PhD, a passionate advocate for education and a Senior Program Officer at the Gates Foundation. Samaad shares his inspiring journey—from his early days as a classroom teacher in New Jersey to now shaping national strategies that uplift Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). With humor and insight, he discusses how his lived experiences inform his work and his dedication to ensuring equity and excellence in higher education. Samaad unpacks the unique strengths and enduring impact of HBCUs, and why they remain a vital force in shaping brilliance and innovation. He also reflects on the power of mentorship, the importance of culturally affirming spaces, and the need for intentional investment in institutions that have historically done so much with so little. Whether you're an educator, policymaker, student, or simply someone who cares about the future of equitable education, this episode will leave you