Marisa A. Edmund, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer and Vice Chairman of the Board of Edmund Optics, has established the Advancing Women in Optics Scholarship at the University of Arizona Wyant College of Optical Sciences. "I am proud to be doing my part to promote diversity and am honored to establish that scholarship addressing people who help recognizing women forging careers in optics. This is especially critical in areas where women are typically under-represented across the industry," says Marisa. "The advice I would offer our candidates is simple; Become a powerful agent of change. Engage with leaders, mentors, and subject matter experts to build skills in core technology, optics, and related operations functions. The success of women in our workplace is a priority. Let’s continue to shine a light on one another and celebrate our achievements both big and small." While not limited to only those who identify as women, the goal of the scholarship is for applicants to show a passion in advancing women in the field of optical sciences and optical engineering and supporting diversity in STEM fields.

Marisa is a third-generation owner of Edmund Optics and has over 25 years of professional contribution in the photonics industry as a global leader in direct marketing, sales, organizational development, and strategic planning. Her specialty is in global communications, human resources, integration of acquired companies, and expanding into emerging markets.

About the University of Arizona James C. Wyant College of Optical Sciences:

The University of Arizona James C. Wyant College of Optical Sciences (OSC) has been lighting the future since 1964 by providing an internationally pre-eminent program in all aspects of the study of light. OSC offers a diverse student body, challenging courses, pioneering research programs with award-winning faculty, and close relationships with the optics industry. For more information, please visit www.optics.arizona.edu.