In this episode of the Yale College Voices Podcast, host Darice Corey sits down with Dr. Anjelica Gonzalez, Head of Davenport College, Professor of Biomedical Engineering, and Faculty Director at Yale's Tsai Center for Innovative Thinking. Dr. Gonzalez shares her remarkable journey from growing up in Las Vegas to becoming a leader in STEM education and biomedical research. Through her inspiring story, she highlights how her childhood experiences, from learning probabilities at her mother’s blackjack table to exploring irrigation systems on her grandfather’s farm, shaped her love for math, science, and engineering. Her path, marked by resilience and curiosity, underscores the importance of representation and mentorship in academic spaces.

Dr. Gonzalez opens up about the challenges and triumphs she has encountered as a Black and Latina woman in a field historically underrepresented by women and minorities. She reflects on the power of breaking barriers, not only in the lab but also in leadership, and the value of fostering diversity in engineering and innovation. From developing artificial human tissues for medical advancements to creating welcoming spaces for underrepresented students, Dr. Gonzalez discusses how her work bridges the gap between science and society. Her commitment to mentorship and advocacy for inclusivity shine through as she shares her efforts to empower the next generation of scientists and leaders.

Listeners will also get a glimpse into Dr. Gonzalez’s personal life as she discusses the joys and challenges of balancing her roles as a scientist, educator, and mother. With humor and authenticity, she shares what drives her passion for innovation and what it means to live and lead within Yale’s residential college system. Whether you're interested in STEM, leadership, or stories of resilience, this episode is a compelling testament to the power of perseverance, community, and the impact of paving the way for others. Tune in for an engaging conversation that’s as inspiring as it is insightful!

Podcast Host: Darice Corey | Senior Director of Web and IT Planning | Yale College Dean’s Office DEIB Advisory Committee Co-Chair | Pierson College Fellow

Podcast Guest: Anjelica Gonzalez | Head of Davenport College, Professor of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty Director at Yale's Tsai Center for Innovative Thinking

Video/Podcast Producer: Ryan McEvoy | Yale Broadcast Studio

Social Media Team and Content Creators:

Esther Donald Mwakisambwe ’25 | Yale School of the Environment

Thomasine Harris Fletcher ’25 | New Haven Promise Intern | Quinnipiac University

Parasmani Pandey ’25 | New Haven Promise Intern | Brandeis University

Kevin Sarango ‘25 | New Haven Promise Intern | UCONN