NSSL's Native American connection

NSSL hydrometeorologist Suzanne Van Cooten, believed to be the first Native American female Ph.D. meteorologist in the U.S., strives to encourage more Native Americans to consider careers in the atmospheric sciences, civil engineering (hydrology) and computer science. Van Cooten, from the Chickasaw tribe, is working with the Chickasaw Nation on outreach and student opportunities. "I see the geosciences as inextricably linked to the Native American community," says Van Cooten. "Native Americans have always been connected to the Earth and its environment. As a student, you can begin to bring these geosciences to your communities and engage Native Americans as our nations's environmentalists." Suzanne was recently profiled in the "Winds of Change" magazine for her passion for her profession and for encouraging Native American students to consider a career in science.