The Berkeley Postdoctoral Association (BPA) hosted a spirited celebration in honor of International Women's Day, bringing together the vibrant community of postdocs at UC Berkeley alongside the wider VSPA community. The event, held on Friday, March 8, 2024, served as a tribute to the invaluable contributions of women in academia while fostering camaraderie.
One of the event's highlights was a lively bingo game, organized by BPA Secretary Diana D. Moreno Santillán and Board Member Bernadine "Didi" Rinkel, which served as a delightful icebreaker. The atmosphere buzzed with energy as participants engaged in friendly competition and shared laughter. Adding to the fun was a special furry guest seen enjoying much attention in the photo below!
The heart of the gathering, however, lay in the informal conversations that unfolded over coffee and cookies. Attendees were invited to reflect on the remarkable achievements of women postdocs and visiting scholars at UC Berkeley while also acknowledging the challenges they may face in academia. The event aimed to cultivate an inclusive environment, welcoming all who are dedicated to advancing gender equality in academia. It served as a platform for building awareness and forging alliances within the VSPA community.
The location, at Gladys & Wayne Plaza, just outside Pat Brown's cafe and the Li Ka Shing Center, provided the perfect backdrop for this occasion. As the event came to a close, it was evident that the spirit of celebration and collaboration would continue to reverberate within the community. The BPA's International Women's Day event not only celebrated the achievements of women in academia but also served as a catalyst for ongoing dialogue and action in the pursuit of gender equality.
