"Chemist At Heart" Talks At MTSU March 13 and 14

Natalie LaFranzo, a chemist now working in the corporate world, will speak twice during two upcoming Middle Tennessee State University National Women's History Month activities.

LaFranzo, director of marketing communications with Personalis Inc. in Boston, Massachusetts, and with strong ties to the American Chemical Society, will speak on "Beyond the Bench -- Bringing Together Business, Chemistry and Creativity" at 6 p.m. Monday, March 13, in Science Building Room 1006.

"Allyship, Advocacy and the Future of STEM: Where Do I Fit In" will be LaFranzo's discussion topic at 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 14, in Science Building Room 1003. STEM is an acronym for science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The Science Building is located at 440 Friendship St. Both events are free, and MTSU students, faculty and staff and the general public are welcome to attend.

LaFranzo's appearance is part of a monthlong series of speakers and special events to commemorate MTSU's National Women's History Month of "Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories."

"I am delighted to share that Natalie will talk about how she connects business and chemistry (March 13)," said chemistry professor Judith Iriarte-Gross, who invited LaFranzo, one of the rising stars in the chemistry field, to speak.

LaFranzo said MTSU "has assembled an incredible program to celebrate National Women's History Month. It is an honor to be a part of this impressive program, and I'm thrilled to represent the chemistry community to share the unique needs and opportunities of women in STEM fields."

LaFranzo is passionate about helping students and professionals navigate their careers, supporting the evolution of the American Chemical Society to reflect the changing face of chemistry and creating a more inclusive environment in science so all feel welcome.

LaFranzo is a member-at-large for the ACS Board of Directors and ACS career consultant. She earned her bachelor's in chemistry from Bradley University and doctorate from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.