Staff Spotlight: Carrie Bates

This series provides an opportunity to get up close and personal with the people who power The New York Academy of Sciences.

Tell us what you do for the Academy.

I help donors identify the areas of the Academy’s work that they care most about, and I share ways for them to support that work. I also help donors understand that their collective support makes it possible for the Academy to drive innovative solutions to society’s most pressing challenges.

What has — so far — been your proudest accomplishment working for the Academy?

One of my proudest moments thus far has been securing underwriting support to ensure the success of the many cancer-focused conferences that are organized by The New York Academy of Sciences. Many of my extended family members and friends are cancer survivors or cancer patients and two years ago I decided to move back to New York to be able to spend more time with them. I am proud to be able to work with The New York Academy of Sciences and know that we are convening researchers, clinicians, and industry leaders to create a brighter future in cancer treatment.

Why do you think science is so important to society?

I think science is important to society because science helps us address the top challenges that we all face together, like creating a sustainable future for life on this planet.

What scientist (or scientists) would you most like to have dinner with and why?

I would most like to have dinner with Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson. She is a trailblazer and has had a long career as a scientist, educator, and leader. She believes in being intentional in the inclusion of women and people of color in the STEM fields. She believes that in order to use the power of science to uplift people’s lives, we must tap the complete talent pool and provide the resources needed to grow the talent pool. She recognizes that there has been progress, that more progress is possible, and that more progress is needed. In every place she goes, she strives to make a positive difference. She is relentless, tenacious and resilient, and I look forward to learning more from her.

What hobbies or interests do you have outside of work?

My family and I enjoy the outdoors and we spend as much of our free time as we can with our extended family and friends exploring and learning through outdoor activities like hiking, viewing wildlife and camping.