Alan Llavore | Office of Marketing and Communications | (909) 537-5007 | allavore@csusb.edu
Marine biologist, author and science advocate Jasmin Graham delivered an engaging and candid book talk at CSUSB as part of the Gerald M. Scherba Lecture Series. The event — held on the International Day of Women and Girls in Science — was presented by the College of Natural Sciences and co-sponsored by CSUSB Libraries, the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, and the Office of Black Student Success.
The discussion was facilitated by Joseph Heras, associate professor of biology, who led the conversation with Graham, followed by a question-and-answer session with attendees.
Lively and open, Graham shared her experiences in academia, her career journey and her work in marine biology, offering CSUSB students advice and encouragement throughout. Author of “Sharks Don’t Sink: Adventures of a Rogue Shark Scientist” and host of the PBS series “Sharks Unknown with Jasmin Graham,” she spoke about overcoming imposter syndrome and navigating challenges in science.
“The cost of doing science should not be humiliation,” said Graham. She also encouraged students to remain authentic in their personal and professional journeys, emphasizing the importance of embracing who they are and finding confidence in their own voice.
In addition, she reminded students that careers are rarely linear. “Don’t expect for it to be a straight path,” she said. “If you veer, that's not bad. It’s just part of your journey.”
During the discussion, Graham highlighted her research on smalltooth sawfish and hammerhead sharks and the conservation challenges they face. She also explained how she co-founded Minorities in Shark Sciences (MISS) in 2020, officially launching the nonprofit on Juneteenth, after connecting online with other Black women who were shark scientists and recognizing how underrepresented they were in the field. What began as a social media conversation grew into a nonprofit dedicated to supporting women of color in marine science through mentorship, community-building and research opportunities.
Additionally, Heras noted that two CSUSB students have been part of Minorities in Shark Sciences, highlighting Graham’s direct impact on the campus community.
Prior to the lecture, held on Feb. 11, a book giveaway and signing took place on the first floor of the university’s John M. Pfau Library, where complimentary copies of Graham’s book were distributed. A long line of students eagerly awaited the opportunity to meet Graham and have their books signed.
The Gerald M. Scherba Lecture Series honors the university’s first science professor and highlights the impact of the natural sciences. Through speakers like Graham, the series continues to inspire the campus community by connecting scientific discovery with personal stories of resilience, leadership and change.