GLOBAL25 Magazine

Conversations That Inspire

Rooted in Science, Growing Through Leadership

An Exclusive Conversation with Dr. Patricia Ramsey, President of Medgar Evers College

By Malikka D. Karteron, President & CEO, Global25

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COVER STORY

Where Science, Leadership, and Legacy Meet

Some conversations remind us why we chose our life's work.

My interview with Dr. Patricia Ramsey, President of Medgar Evers College, became one of those unforgettable moments—an opportunity to discuss not only education, but the profound connections between science, environmental stewardship, leadership, and the responsibility we have to prepare future generations. Dr. Ramsey's historic appointment as the first woman and first scientist to serve as President of Medgar Evers College represents an important milestone in higher education and STEAM leadership.

As someone whose own academic foundation was built at Hampton University, our discussion felt deeply personal. Together we explored how science can become a bridge to opportunity, innovation, and community transformation.

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Feature Interview

A Conversation Rooted in Botany and Environmental Science

Our discussion centered around two lifelong passions:

• Botany

• Environmental Science

  
  

These disciplines shaped my educational journey as a Marine and Environmental Science major at Hampton University, where I first discovered that understanding our natural world is inseparable from understanding our responsibility to protect it.

Dr. Ramsey shared thoughtful perspectives on the role botanical research plays in addressing today's environmental challenges while emphasizing the importance of developing scientifically literate students prepared to solve tomorrow's problems. Her perspective as both a scientist and higher education leader brought remarkable depth to our conversation.

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"Education flourishes when curiosity meets opportunity—and science gives young people the tools to shape a better world."

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From Hampton University to Community Leadership

Returning to conversations about science also brought me back to my own beginnings.

During my years at Hampton University, I had extraordinary opportunities that continue to influence my work today.

NOAA's MAST Program

One of the most impactful experiences was participating in the Minorities at Sea Together (MAST) Program conducted under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

The program expanded my understanding of:

• Marine ecosystems

• Environmental research

• Scientific collaboration

• Diversity within STEAM careers

• Contributions Black people made to the waterways

• The Arts associated with the Chesapeake Bay Corridor

  
  

More importantly, it reinforced that representation in science matters. Those lessons now influence every educational initiative Global25 develops for children and families.

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Breaking Barriers on the Water

Hampton University also offered another unforgettable opportunity.

I became a member of the University's first Historically Black Sailing Team—an experience that taught leadership, resilience, discipline, teamwork, and the courage to chart new courses.

Those lessons extend far beyond sailing.

They continue to guide my leadership today through Global25 and my commitment to expanding opportunities for underserved communities.

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"Sometimes the greatest classrooms are found beyond four walls—on the water, in laboratories, and in communities."

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A Lesson in Service

One experience remains permanently etched into my memory.

While serving as a lifeguard during my years at Hampton University, the Lifeguards on duty responded to a life-threatening emergency that resulted in a successful rescue.

For those efforts, we received a Citation from the City of Hampton.

The recognition was meaningful, but the lesson was even greater:

Leadership is measured by preparation, responsibility, and the willingness to act when others need you most.

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Why This Conversation Matters

My conversation with Dr. Ramsey was about much more than higher education.

It was about creating pathways.

It was about demonstrating that women can lead institutions of higher learning while advancing scientific discovery.

It was about inspiring future scientists, educators, environmental leaders, and innovators who will shape communities around the world.

Institutions like Medgar Evers College continue to play a vital role in developing diverse leaders prepared to solve complex global challenges through education, research, and service.

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Acknowledgements

Special appreciation is extended to:

• Dr. Patricia Ramsey, President, Medgar Evers College

• Dr. Evelyn Castro, Dean, School of Professional and Community Development

• Earl Simons, Vice President, Philanthropy and External Relations

• The Jamaica Branch of the NAACP

• Phillip Tavada, Chairman of the Economic Development and Environmental Justice Committees

  
  

Their commitment to education, environmental awareness, and community leadership made this meaningful conversation possible.

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Global25 Perspective

At Global25, we believe education, science, sustainability, and leadership are inseparable.

Every child deserves access to experiences that ignite curiosity.

Every community deserves leaders who understand the connection between environmental stewardship and economic opportunity.

Every institution benefits when diverse voices lead with purpose.

This interview reaffirmed that the future belongs to those willing to combine knowledge with service—and science with humanity.

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Magazine Pull Quotes

"Science is more than a discipline—it is a pathway to possibility."

"Leadership rooted in knowledge creates communities prepared for tomorrow."

"From Hampton University to Global25, the journey has always been about using education to transform lives."

"Environmental stewardship begins with education and grows through action."

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About the Author

Malikka D. Karteron is President & CEO of Global25, an international organization advancing environmental, social, educational, and economic initiatives through strategic partnerships, community innovation, STEAM education, sustainability, ESG and global collaboration. Her background in Marine and Environmental Science, education, and community leadership informs her work to create opportunities that empower individuals and strengthen communities worldwide.