InfluenceHER - Empowering the Next Generation of Women

Join us for September’s InfluenceHER: Empowering the Next Generation of Women! Learn about the importance of empowering the next generation of women through education, community, and family.

Professors from COC will discuss their leadership experiences and share how quality education equips young women with crucial knowledge. Providing support, mentorship, and encouragement at the business, family and community levels uplifts girls and helps them develop a strong sense of self-worth and confidence that sets them up for future success in their careers and personal lives.

All women are welcome! We hope to see you there!

Meet our guest speakers:

Julie Johnson

A native of Brooklyn, New York, Julie Johnson is an Associate Professor of History and Faculty Co-Coordinator of the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning at College of the Canyons.  Julie completed her Ph.D. in American History at Claremont Graduate University.  In the classroom, Julie is known for her dedication to Equity Minded and Inclusive practices. She endeavors to create an inviting and supportive environment so that all students feel valued and encouraged to participate in meaningful conversations about American history. As a wife and mother in the 21st century, Julie believes uplifting women's history is of paramount importance for future generations.

Kelly Cude

Kelly Cude is a Professor of Biological Sciences at College of the Canyons where she has written and taught a multitude of classes from cancer biology to molecular genetics for the past 17 years. Prior to becoming a professor, she worked extensively in the field of cancer research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and University of Washington, where she earned her PhD in Molecular and Cellular Biology. After witnessing the “STEM Gap” firsthand, Kelly left bench research in favor of a teaching career with the goal of encouraging more female and underrepresented students to go into science. In the classroom, she creates an environment of trust by sharing honest stories of her own scientific failures and emphasizes that success in science relies on problem solving skills and resilience rather than “being smart.”