About Our People

Chakya Browning, a Chesapeake Conservation intern, joins TU’s Center for STEM Excellence as the new lab assistant to help build kits for Science is Elementary and Maryland Loaner Lab programs.

Quinae West in the lab

Browning assists in preparing lab supplies for the Science is Elementary and Maryland Loaner Lab (MDLL) programs for TU’s Center for STEM Excellence. The programs provide Maryland elementary and secondary teachers free science kits shipped directly to their classrooms. From mixing reagents to pouring electrophoresis practice gels, she prepares the supplies for students to engage in inquiry-based science activities

The new lab assistant joined the Center for STEM Excellence as a Chesapeake Conservation Corps intern.

The Corp's year‑long program pairs young adults with various organizations working on issues affecting the Bay’s watershed. Protecting and restoring the Chesapeake Bay is important to Browning, who was selected from more than 50 candidates.

“I'm thrilled to work for TU’s Center for STEM Excellence,” she expresses. “My goal is to connect with the youth in Baltimore and encourage them to find creative ways to take better care of the environment and contribute to making change.”

After graduating from Chesapeake High School, Browning plans to continue her education, focusing on environmental science, art, and community engagement. 

Now, as a member of TUCSE’s staff, she is developing new skills and gaining experience that will help her achieve her dream of becoming a community activist and artist.

“Not only do I get to work designing science kits to assist students in my community,” explains Browning, but I also get to participate in classes that teach students how they impact the environment and how to solve local environmental issues.”