ACM-W Above and Beyond: Dr. Salys Sultan
Dr. Salys Sultan received an ACM-W scholarship in 2010. She is a Caribbean-based academic, researcher, and technology specialist known for her work in computer science, mobile health, and technology-enabled education. She is currently an Associate Professor at the University of Aruba, where she has served in roles including Program Manager for the Master in Sustainability for Engineering, Vice Dean and Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Science where she continues to contribute to research development, interdisciplinary education, and STEM initiatives in the region. Her work focuses on small island sustainability opportunities. Her most recent achievement was being part of a consortium that was awarded funding to work on the JUST ART NWO project, where they explore hydro-social relations in islands, coastland and peatlands using her data visualization lens. Through her work in academia, Salys has helped advance digital innovation, research collaboration, and technology-driven solutions for health and sustainability across the Caribbean.
Current role, organization: Associate Professor at the University of Aruba
Year of Scholarship and Conference Attendance: American Telemedicine Association 2011 International Meeting
Country of Origin: Trinidad and Tobago
Country of residence at the time of receiving ACM-W Scholarship: Trinidad and Tobago
What has been a highlight of attending the conference (utilizing the ACM-W Scholarship)?
Attending the conference in the United States in 2011 had a major influence on my career as an academic. These platforms inspire, engage and bring to life the opportunities that are possible through research and community engagement. There were not many conferences of that nature in my country of residence at that time. Therefore this afforded me the opportunity to network with others within the field as well as receive valuable feedback on my research and prototype developments.
How did attending the ACM-W-sponsored conference impact your career? Did it lead to any important connections in your field?
The experience solidified the connection between research and education. One of my mantras is to make STEM education more relevant, accessible and inclusive. Being present and making new connections within the research field helped open many doors for other students who may not be able to leave the island due to socio-economic reasons.
What has been your career highlight? What are you most proud of?
The highlight of my career has been the connections that I have made with my students and colleagues over the years. I have paved the way for others to explore. I have always been interested in trying new adventures. Being the first student to study Computer Science at my high school or being the first person from my country to receive an Erasmus Mundus (now Erasmus+ scholarship) challenged the status quo and advocated for the right to and power of education. Now, when I meet a past connection and see how much they have grown, it brings a smile to my face knowing that they, too, followed their dreams.
What aspects of your career have you found challenging?
Being the first meant there was no roadmap to follow, and at times the path felt lonely or unclear. That said, I am always up for the adventure, and I see being first as also an opportunity to create an experience that best suits your needs and hopefully the needs of persons who may follow a similar path. You know the saying “go big or go home.” At every turn, my intent was to be my “Big” self, knowing and open to future growth. The stretch we feel when you learn something new, that uncomfortable feeling, that’s when you know growth is taking place. After a while, you start to embrace the feeling, and now it feels great!
Was the connection to ACM-W helpful or important in any immediate and lasting way?
For sure. Since then, I have subscribed and stayed connected with this online community to stay abreast of the latest trends and opportunities to give back. Being a parent has changed my ability to fully immerse myself. However, having a platform specifically designed for women in this field is so comforting and supportive. Engagement is different as a female, male or other identity, and it’s up to you to discover how to make the best use of this community. Having this community helps me stay connected to the latest events and research.
Is there anything else you would like to share with us that we can highlight about your story?
My story may not make the headlines of the next press release, but it is my story, and I am proud of it. As an ACM-W member, it all starts with you. We live in a time where information and misinformation are readily available. You have the opportunity to decide how to respond. Don’t forget the people who supported you when you started, and nurture relationships with people who fill your cup. In this world of technology-driven interaction, community can pave a sustainable path for the next generation to make life a little bit easier and more manageable.
