Meet the Scientists behind The Lab Drawer
Founders Alecia Gabriel, Ph.D., and Deirdre Roberson, M.S., started The Lab Drawer to deliver quality, culturally relevant STEAM experiences to youth across the globe.
OUR MISSION
Create a sustainable, high-quality, scalable solution for delivering culturally relevant and quality STEAM experiences to youth.
Dr. Alecia Gabriel, Ph.D.
EDUCATION
Cass Technical High School 2003
Xavier University of Louisiana B.S, Biochemistry, 2007
Louisiana State University Ph.D., Chemistry (Bio-Organic) , 2012
ACTIVITIES & AFFILIATIONS
Oakland University School of Engineering and Computer Science Advisory Board
National Organization for the Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
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Dr. Alecia Gabriel is passionate about teaching and encouraging young people to go into STEM careers, but she knows the importance of the arts as well. She is excited to share how her background in science and the performing arts (classical vocal training, ballet, tap, jazz/modern dance, musical theater) propels innovative thinking in technical studies. She has experience in managing operations, project management, automotive and aerospace quality assurance, consulting, and of course, instructing students in K - Collegiate levels. She was recognized in Crain’s Detroit Business Magazine (2018) as a “Notable Woman in Manufacturing.” In her free time, she enjoys singing in front of a live audience, traveling, being a foodie, but also spending time with her friends, family, husband, and doggie, Chestnut.
Deirdre Roberson, M.S.
EDUCATION
Cass Technical High School 2004
Xavier University of Louisiana B.S, Chemistry, 2008
University of Detroit Mercy M. S., Chemistry (biochemistry & Medicinal), 2011
ACTIVITIES & AFFILIATIONS
Founder of EUMELANIN
National Environmental Health Association, Member
Michigan Environmental Health Association, Member
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
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Deirdre Roberson is a born and raised Detroiter, and passionate about community involvement. In previous roles, Deirdre worked as an Environmental Specialist in Public Health and was the program manager for The STEMinista Project at The Michigan Science Center. An avid community supporter and southwest Detroit resident, Deirdre’s mentored local youth for over 10 years. She’s an advocate for increased funding and support for urban arts and science programs and has volunteered with Karmanos Cancer Institute, Alternatives For Girls, Developing K.I.D.S. and has been awarded for her volunteer work at the Michigan Science Center. In 2021 she gave a TEDx Detroit talk “Fashion as a Vehicle For Change." Deirdre is the founder of EUMELANIN a fashion brand designed to celebrate and empower black and brown people around the world by infusing science in every design. She enjoys reading, art museums, fashion and fast cars.
