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17 October 2022
Optica announces 2022 Diversity and Inclusion Advocacy Recognition recipients
Individual and organizational awards recognize efforts to increase diversity and inclusivity
WASHINGTON – Optica (formerly OSA), Advancing Optics and Photonics Worldwide, is pleased to announce the winners of the 2022 Optica Diversity and Inclusion Advocacy Recognition: Imrana Ashraf, Quaid-I-Azam University, Pakistan; Edmund Optics, United States; and Danuta Sampson, University College London, United Kingdom.
"For the past five years, Optica has recognized the contributions of Optica members, companies and institutions who proactively work to create a more diverse, equitable and inclusive optics and photonics community," said Marcia Lesky, Senior Director of Diversity, Inclusion & Volunteer Cultivation. "We are proud of the 2022 honorees' steadfast commitment to creating an inclusive community."
The Diversity and Inclusion Advocacy Recognition honorees were announced during the 2022 Frontiers in Optics + Laser Science (FiO LS) Awards Ceremony on 17 October 2022.
Recognition of Imrana Ashraf, Quaid-i-Azam University, Pakistan
Professor Imrana Ashraf is recognized "for her tireless work to promote optics and photonics careers in emerging economy nations, with a special emphasis on women, the transgender community and rural areas." Ashraf was the first woman in Pakistan to get a Ph.D. in the field of quantum optics and is a 2016 Optica Senior Member.
Recognition of Edmund Optics, United States
Edmund Optics is recognized "for their dedication and investment to establish and maintain region-specific initiatives, programs and policies around the world to create a more diverse and inclusive workplace." Edmund Optics (EO) has been a leading global manufacturer and supplier of optics, imaging, and photonics technology that has served a variety of markets including Life Sciences, Biomedical, Industrial Inspection, Semiconductor, R&D and Defense since 1942.
Recognition of Danuta Sampson, University College London, United Kingdom
Research Fellow Danuta Sampson is recognized "for her work in raising public awareness of vision impairment and creating opportunities to spark interest in and foster exploration of STEM by girls and children from low socioeconomic backgrounds." Sampson received her PhD from the Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Poland and is an Optica Ambassador, class of 2017.
To learn more visit: Diversity and Inclusion Advocacy Recognition
Optica Foundation
Established in 2002, the Optica Foundation carries out charitable activities in support of the society’s student and early career members. We cultivate the next generation of leaders and innovators as they navigate advanced degree programs and become active members of research, engineering and business communities worldwide. The foundation also works to secure the endowments for Optica’s awards and honors programs. The foundation is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit. For more information, visit optica.org/foundation.
About FiO LS
Frontiers in Optics (FiO), the annual meeting for Optica (formerly OSA) is presented with Laser Science, the annual meeting of the American Physical Society, Division of Laser Science (APS-DLS). The two meetings unite the Optica and APS communities for quality, cutting-edge presentations, in-demand invited speakers and a variety of special events spanning a broad range of topics in optics and photonics across the disciplines of physics, biology and chemistry. The exhibit features leading optics and photonics companies and technology products. More information at https://www.frontiersinoptics.com.
About Optica
Optica, Advancing Optics and Photonics Worldwide, is the society dedicated to promoting the generation, application, archiving and dissemination of knowledge in the field. Founded in 1916, it is the leading organization for scientists, engineers, business professionals, students and others interested in the science of light. Optica's renowned publications, meetings, online resources and in-person activities fuel discoveries, shape real-life applications and accelerate scientific, technical and educational achievement. Discover more at: Optica.org
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