Angela Hairston to present at the American Chemical Society National Meeting and Exposition

Angela Hairston to present at the American Chemical Society National Meeting and Exposition

The brilliant research of one Alcorn State University scholar will be on display for an esteemed group of scientific researchers.

Angela Hairston, a senior chemistry major from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, will present anticancer research at the 255^th American Chemical Society National Meeting and Exposition Monday, March 19 in New Orleans, Louisiana. The title of her presentation is “Utilizing Light Sensitive Ruthenium Complexes to Target Cancer.”

The American Chemical Society is the world’s largest scientific society. Their mission is to advance the broader chemistry enterprise and its practitioners for the benefit of Earth and its people.

The upcoming presentation is a precursor to what’s ahead for Hairston as a chemist.

“I am very honored and blessed to be able to present my research,” said Hairston. “This is a great opportunity to commence my career in medicinal chemistry. This is not only an opportunity to present my research, but it is also a way to represent Alcorn at such a prestigious meeting.”

This won’t be Hairston’s first presentation. Back in October 2017, she presented her research at the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Symposium in Alexandria, Virginia. She credits that experience, along with her time participating in the University of Alabama’s REU program last summer, for boosting her confidence and preparing her for her next presentation.

“My experience as a presenter in Virginia prepared me for the national meeting by providing me with the confidence I need to present at a higher level. I thank the University of Alabama for supplying me with additional knowledge and opportunities needed to excel in the scientific profession.”

Hairston’s drive to fight cancer began during her childhood, as she witnessed some of her closest relatives battle the disease.

“I gained an interest in anticancer research during early adolescence when my aunt and grandmother were diagnosed with pancreatic and bladder cancer. Seeing them struggle with their illnesses solidified my drive to scientifically fight against these detrimental diseases.”

Looking back on her journey, Hairston thanks all of those who’ve supported her and aided her progress as a chemist.

“I would like to thank Dr. Sandra Barnes, chair for the Department of Chemistry and Physics, for introducing me to the program. My participation in the program reassured me of my passion to help others and empowered me by offering more laboratory skills and research techniques. My participation in the program also made me eager to continue cancer research under the direction of Dr. Yolanda Jones at Alcorn.”