The MAC welcomes you to San Antonio

The MAC welcome reception marks the commencement and celebration of Discover BMB 2024 — all attendees are encouraged to join in the festivities. This gathering serves as a perfect opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces and forge new connections within the scientific community. Hosted by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology’s  Maximizing Access Committee, the event promises not only camaraderie and good food, but also a showcase of incredible research by recipients of the Graduate Student Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Travel Award.

ASBMB

Roxanne Evande, a University of Delaware grad student and recipient of a 2023 ASBMB Graduate Student Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Travel Award, discusses her poster during the MAC reception at Discover BMB 2023 in Seattle.

The MAC reception traditionally provides a welcoming atmosphere where attendees can develop a sense of belonging at DiscoverBMB and within the greater ASBMB community. Fostering such an environment is central to the society’s commitment to diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion, and the welcome reception demonstrates the MAC’s dedication to creating an inclusive scientific community. The event also serve as a platform to share information about ASBMB and MAC activities and upcoming events.

Reception attendees can learn about the committee's initiatives aimed at maximizing access to scientific resources and opportunities for scientists from underrepresented groups. For example, MAC members will create and disseminate handouts providing valuable insights into being or becoming an ally to people with historically marginalized or excluded identities. This reflects the committee's broader mission of not only providing opportunities for ASBMB members but also of cultivating a culture of support and advocacy for diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion.

The 2024 MAC welcoming reception will be held Saturday, March 23, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., in the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center Exhibit Hall in San Antonio.

The evening promises to be a blend of intellectual stimulation, networking opportunities and fellowship among those in the BMB community that value and champion diversity in all its forms.