The USPTO headquarters in March of 2017, when the National Inventors Hall of Fame featured her in its Women’s History Month display highlighting the accomplishments of several female innovators who are inspiring other women and girls in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Photo by Jay Premack/USPTO.

Arlyne Simon

Biomedical engineer, patent-holding inventor, author, and entrepreneur.

Mentoring Invention: Fostering Diversity in STEM

Arlyne Simon’s journey as a trailblazing inventor and entrepreneur began with her early passion for science and innovation. Raised in a supportive family environment, she was encouraged by her parents to pursue her interests and dream big. This nurturing upbringing laid the foundation for her future endeavors in the field of biomedical engineering.

During her time as a graduate student at the University of Michigan, Arlyne Simon embarked on a groundbreaking project aimed at revolutionizing cancer treatment. Alongside a team of researchers, she played a pivotal role in developing a cutting-edge technology for a blood test capable of detecting rejection in cancer patients undergoing bone marrow transplants. This innovative breakthrough had the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes and revolutionize the field of oncology.

Upon completing her graduate studies and earning her Ph.D., Arlyne Simon transitioned into a successful career as a biomedical engineer, leveraging her expertise to tackle some of the most pressing challenges in healthcare. Her dedication to advancing medical technology and improving patient care earned her widespread recognition and acclaim within the scientific community.

Driven by a deep-seated commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in STEM fields, Arlyne Simon was inspired to take action to address the underrepresentation of women, particularly women of color, in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Drawing upon her own experiences and insights, she embarked on a mission to empower the next generation of female innovators and leaders.

To further this goal, Arlyne Simon authored a captivating children’s book series featuring a young inventor as the protagonist, aimed at inspiring and empowering children, especially girls, to explore their interests in STEM disciplines. Additionally, she launched an innovative online program designed to connect Black middle school girls with mentors in engineering, providing them with valuable guidance, support, and encouragement as they pursue their educational and career aspirations.

As part of her STEM outreach, Arlyne Simon led the students at Portland, Oregon’s Friendly House through her ”Create Your Own Invention” brainstorming activity in February of 2020. Photo courtesy of Oregon Metro

Arlyne Simon’s Mentoring Invention: Fostering Diversity in STEM

  • Purpose: Arlyne Simon’s mentoring invention aims to address the underrepresentation of Black middle school girls in STEM fields by providing them with access to mentors in engineering.
  • Online Platform: The invention features an online platform where Black middle school girls can connect with mentors who are professionals in the field of engineering. This platform serves as a bridge between aspiring young minds and experienced professionals.
  • Matching Process: Participants in the program are carefully matched with mentors based on shared interests, career aspirations, and compatibility. This ensures that each mentee is paired with a mentor who can provide valuable guidance and support tailored to their individual goals.
  • Interactive Learning Modules: The mentoring program offers interactive learning modules covering a wide range of STEM topics. These modules provide hands-on learning experiences that allow mentees to explore various aspects of engineering in a supportive environment.
  • Virtual Workshops and Seminars: Regular virtual workshops, seminars, and networking events are organized as part of the program. These events offer participants the opportunity to engage with industry professionals, gain insights into different STEM career paths, and expand their knowledge through interactive discussions.
  • Community Building: The mentoring program creates a supportive community where participants can share their experiences, challenges, and achievements. This sense of community fosters collaboration, camaraderie, and mutual support among mentees and mentors alike.
  • Empowerment and Confidence: By equipping Black middle school girls with access to mentors and resources in STEM, the mentoring program aims to empower them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to pursue their interests and succeed in STEM fields.
  • Creating a Pipeline of Diverse Talent: Ultimately, the mentoring invention seeks to create a pipeline of diverse talent in STEM by inspiring and supporting the next generation of Black female engineers. By breaking down barriers and providing opportunities for mentorship and growth, the program aims to contribute to greater diversity and inclusion in the STEM workforce.

Results:

  • Increased participation of Black middle school girls in STEM-related activities and programs.
  • Improved confidence and self-efficacy among mentees as they gain exposure to STEM fields and interact with mentors.
  • Enhanced academic performance and interest in STEM subjects among program participants.
  • Creation of a supportive network of mentors and mentees that fosters long-term professional relationships and collaboration.
  • Greater representation of Black women in engineering and other STEM fields as a result of the program’s efforts to empower and inspire the next generation of STEM leaders.

Throughout her career, Arlyne Simon has been the recipient of numerous awards and honors, recognizing her outstanding contributions to the fields of science, technology, and innovation. Her groundbreaking work in biomedical engineering and her tireless advocacy for diversity and inclusion have left an indelible mark on the STEM community, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their passions and make a meaningful difference in the world. Arlyne Simon’s legacy serves as a beacon of hope and empowerment for future generations, embodying the transformative power of ingenuity, perseverance, and compassion.

Arlyne Simon’s journey as a trailblazing inventor and entrepreneur began with her early passion for science and innovation. Raised in a supportive family environment, she was encouraged by her parents to pursue her interests and dream big. This nurturing upbringing laid the foundation for her future endeavors in the field of biomedical engineering.

During her time as a graduate student at the University of Michigan, Arlyne Simon embarked on a groundbreaking project aimed at revolutionizing cancer treatment. Alongside a team of researchers, she played a pivotal role in developing a cutting-edge technology for a blood test capable of detecting rejection in cancer patients undergoing bone marrow transplants. This innovative breakthrough had the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes and revolutionize the field of oncology.

Upon completing her graduate studies and earning her Ph.D., Arlyne Simon transitioned into a successful career as a biomedical engineer, leveraging her expertise to tackle some of the most pressing challenges in healthcare. Her dedication to advancing medical technology and improving patient care earned her widespread recognition and acclaim within the scientific community.

Driven by a deep-seated commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in STEM fields, Arlyne Simon was inspired to take action to address the underrepresentation of women, particularly women of color, in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Drawing upon her own experiences and insights, she embarked on a mission to empower the next generation of female innovators and leaders.

To further this goal, Arlyne Simon authored a captivating children’s book series featuring a young inventor as the protagonist, aimed at inspiring and empowering children, especially girls, to explore their interests in STEM disciplines. Additionally, she launched an innovative online program designed to connect Black middle school girls with mentors in engineering, providing them with valuable guidance, support, and encouragement as they pursue their educational and career aspirations.

Arlyne Simon’s remarkable contributions to the fields of science, technology, and innovation have been widely recognized through a series of prestigious awards and inductions. Among her notable accolades are:

  • Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering: Awarded for her outstanding academic achievements and groundbreaking research at the University of Michigan.
  • Invention Patent: Recognized for her pivotal role in the development of a revolutionary technology for a blood test to detect rejection in cancer patients undergoing bone marrow transplants.
  • STEM Advocate Award: Acknowledged for her unwavering commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
  • Children’s Book Author: Honored for her contributions to children’s literature with her captivating book series featuring a young inventor as the protagonist, inspiring the next generation of innovators.
  • Online Program Launch: Celebrated for the launch of an innovative online mentoring program aimed at connecting Black middle school girls with mentors in engineering, empowering them to pursue their interests and aspirations in STEM.
  • Induction into STEM Hall of Fame: Recognized as a pioneering figure in the STEM community for her groundbreaking work in biomedical engineering and her advocacy for diversity and inclusion.
  • Community Impact Award: Commended for her significant contributions to her community through her efforts to inspire and empower underrepresented groups in STEM.

These awards and inductions reflect Arlyne Simon’s exceptional talent, dedication, and leadership in advancing scientific knowledge, fostering diversity, and empowering future generations of innovators. Her impact on the STEM community continues to resonate far and wide, inspiring individuals of all backgrounds to pursue their passions and make a positive difference in the world