Senior Director, Capacity Development, International Networks, Cooperation, and Security, National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine , Washington, D.C., USA

AGU embraces the global community and welcomes leaders representing various identities, voices and perspectives. List any identities, voices and perspectives you would bring, including but not limited to nationality, regional representations, racial and ethnic backgrounds, and anything else you feel comfortable sharing.

I bring a global, interdisciplinary, and cross-cultural perspective shaped by my journey as an international student from Morocco who came to the United States on a scholarship to pursue a Ph.D. in Climate and Space Sciences and Engineering. My academic background spans aerospace engineering, Earth and space sciences, hydrology, and public policy, giving me an appreciation for both scientific discovery and the institutions, partnerships, and policies needed to translate science into societal impact.

Beyond science, I am also a flamenco dancer. I do not see arts and science as separate pursuits; creativity is the foundation of innovation, and both cultivate curiosity, aesthetics, and new ways of understanding the world.

AGU has been an important part of my professional journey. The AGU Fall Meeting was the first scientific conference I attended, and over the years AGU has supported and recognized my growth through the Outstanding Student Paper Award and most recently, the Ambassador Award. These experiences strengthened my sense of belonging within the AGU community and reinforced my commitment to helping others find that same sense of belonging.

I believe talent exists everywhere, and I am committed to helping AGU foster a community where diverse perspectives are welcomed, valued, and empowered.

Volunteer experience that you feel relates to this position:

Served on AGU’s Talent Pool Strategy Task Force (2018), contributing to strategic planning and evaluation of initiatives to build a diverse, globally connected Earth and space science workforce. Reviewed applications and interviewed candidates for the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Science & Technology Policy Fellowship (2016–2018), helping identify future science diplomacy leaders. Served on the 2019 Race2Space competition jury, evaluating STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) outreach and science communication while supporting K–12 engagement and international scientific collaboration between the United States and Morocco.

AGU’s Board of Directors is responsible for the governance, fiduciary and reputational health of the organization and handles its business affairs. The primary role of an AGU Board director is to partner with the other Board members and staff to lead the organization.

Board members work together with other volunteer leaders and staff to play a key role in implementing AGU’s strategic plan.

How do you imagine the global science ecosystem of the future, and how should AGU steward and empower its community to strengthen the organization and ensure lasting impact?

What must we begin doing today to prepare for that future?