Biological scientist and educator Dr. Wren Walker Robbins is the 2022 Ely S. Parker Award winner. Now in its 39th year, the Ely S. Parker Award is the highest professional honor that AISES confers and is awarded to individuals like Dr. Walker Robbins whose life’s work embodies advancement in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) fields and creates opportunities for others in the Indigenous STEM community through education, mentorship, and leadership.

Recipients of this prestigious award follow the example of Ely S. Parker, a 19th-century Seneca Nation chief who broke multiple racial barriers while establishing a legacy that inspires others to take action in their communities. Dr. Walker Robbins, a two-spirit person of Mohawk descent, has broken many barriers of her own and is a role model for all people involved in STEM. Her 28 years of experience in higher education, service to Indigenous communities, understanding of alternative knowledge systems, and impact on all who work side by side with her make her a most deserving recipient of this singular honor.