Leslie is a scientist, educator, and public engagement specialist with over a decade of experience creating community-centered science programming. As Science ATL’s Festival Coordinator, she brings a passion for curiosity-driven and inclusive experiences to the Atlanta Science Festival.
Before joining Science ATL, she led events focused on inclusive excellence and academic engagement in higher education at the University of Georgia. Her work prioritizes accessibility, collaboration, and deep community connection, especially with groups historically excluded from science spaces.
A native of metro Atlanta, her love for science was sparked by childhood visits to aquariums and zoos. She earned a B.S. in Biology from Spelman College and an M.S. in Biology from Clark Atlanta University. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Marine Science, where her research focuses on the effects of climate variability on coastal ecosystems in the South Atlantic Bight.
Outside of work, she enjoys swimming, SCUBA diving, trying new foods, reading, and traveling. She is passionate about cultivating wonder, equity, and connection through science—and hopes to inspire the next generation of Black scientists, especially young women, to dive into discovery.
