28-Year-Old Becomes First Black Woman to Earn PhD in Biochemistry at a US University

Chantrell Frazier, a 28-year-old student-athlete, has set a remarkable milestone by becoming the first Black woman to earn a Doctorate in Biochemistry from Florida International University (FIU). Her journey to this historic achievement is a testament to her perseverance, passion, and the solid foundation laid by her earlier education at a Historically Black College and University (HBCU).

Frazier began her academic journey at Savannah State University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Forensic Science with a concentration in Chemistry. She credits her time at Savannah State for preparing her for the rigorous demands of graduate school. “Who can look out better for us than ourselves? It prepared me to not falter. It prepared me when things got difficult not to quit,” Frazier reflected.

Transitioning from an HBCU to a public university posed its challenges, but Frazier’s passion for forensic science fueled her determination. Her research at FIU focused on the biology and chemistry of human body odors for forensic identification. Her groundbreaking work led to identifying individuals based on gender through their body odor, a significant advancement in forensic science. Additionally, she explored whether mosquitoes are attracted to specific human body odors, findings she plans to present in Tanzania.

Throughout her academic career, Frazier’s work received significant recognition and funding, including support from the Dubai Police and the Florida Education McKnight Fellowship. Her research not only advanced scientific knowledge but also sparked collaborative efforts within the FIU research community.

Beyond her research, Frazier has been actively involved in mentorship and community service. She has volunteered with the FIU Student Access and Success Center, the City of Miami Gardens, and mentored students conducting research at FIU. Her commitment to diversity and inclusion in STEM fields has been a driving force behind her efforts to inspire the next generation of scientists.

Frazier’s achievements have earned her the Mary Miles Bibb Teaching Fellowship at Framingham State University in Massachusetts, where she will continue her postdoctoral studies. Named after the university’s first African-American graduate, the Bibb Fellowship recognizes individuals with a sustained commitment to diversity and inclusion in teaching, scholarship, and service.

Looking ahead, Frazier aspires to become a chemistry professor and continue breaking barriers for women of color in STEM. “It’s just being an example for them, showing them that the ceiling is open because I feel like I’ve broken a lot of glass ceilings with what I’ve done,” she said.

Chantrell Frazier’s historic accomplishment at FIU not only marks a personal triumph but also paves the way for future generations of Black women in science. Her journey exemplifies the power of perseverance, the importance of a strong educational foundation, and the impact of mentorship and community support.

Marie Fowler has made history at Howard University by becoming the oldest graduate to earn a PhD at the age of 83. Achieving her Doctor of Ministry degree from the Howard University School of Divinity, Fowler has set a new record for the prestigious institution.

Fowler’s journey to her doctoral degree was marked by determination and a deep sense of purpose. She had previously earned a bachelor’s degree and two master’s degrees from Maple Springs Baptist Bible College and Seminary. Returning to academia after decades, she felt a divine calling to further her education.

Initially, Fowler was uncertain about her ability to succeed in her studies, having been out of school since 1959. Despite these concerns, she was motivated by the experiences of her parents, who grew up in an era when it was illegal for them to learn to read and write. Inspired by her father’s determination to overcome these obstacles, Fowler pushed forward, driven by his words, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste.” Read more on Marie Fowler here.

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