Show Summary:In this episode of The STEM Space, Natasha sits down with Nichole Austion — children’s book author and Vice President of Public Affairs at the National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI). Nichole shares the story behind her book Miles and the Math Monsters, inspired by her son’s journey to overcome struggles with math, where the character discovers math to be a helpful companion intertwined in their everyday environment. Listen in as she shares an excerpt of her book and practical advice on fostering a positive math identity in children.About Nichole Austion, VP of Public Affairs at NMSI: Nichole Austion is the Vice President of Public Affairs at the National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI), where she leads marketing and government relations. With a focus on STEM advancement, Nichole orchestrates strategic initiatives, bridging marketing and government relations to amplify NMSI’s impact nationwide. Her expertise stems from her work with global technology firms like Sabre Holdings and Teradata, where she drove multimillion-dollar revenue through innovative marketing strategies. She is the author of “Miles and the Math Monsters,” a children’s book that transforms math into a friendly presence, encouraging children to see it as a helpful companion intertwined with their everyday environment. She holds an engineering degree from Howard University and an MBA from The University of Texas at Austin.About National Math and Science Initiative: The National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving STEM education in the U.S. It focuses on expanding access to high-quality math and science programs, particularly for students who face barriers to educational opportunities. Since its founding in 2007, NMSI has worked with schools, teachers, and policymakers to enhance STEM learning and prepare students for careers in STEM fields.Links from the Show:Related The STEM Space Podcast Episodes166. Why Math Matters ft. CEO of NMSI179. Seeing Students as Mathematicians ft. Cherelle McKnight of Illustrative MathematicsIs Teaching Engineering Bad? - Part 1 and Part 2117. Why Does Belonging Matter in STEM Education?Vivify STEM Blog PostsTop 10 Ways To Encourage Girls In STEMHow to Teach Growth Mindset and Failing ForwardThe Importance of FailureVivify STEM LessonsFREE! - Add Math Practice to any Design Challenge using these Editable Budget SheetsCatapult ChallengeStomp Rocket ChallengeFREE! - Space for You in STEM Inspirational PostersBreak Down Stereotypes! Who is a STEM Professional? GameFREE! - Women in STEM Classroom PostersOther STEM ResourcesNichole Austion | LinkedInNational Math and Science Initiative (NMSI)Miles and the Math Monsters bookNMSI Professional Development ServicesWebinar | Breaking Boundaries: Celebrating Black Excellence in STEM (ft. Nichole Austion, Joan Higginbotham, and Dr. Ciara Sivels)THE STEM SPACE SHOWNOTESTHE STEM SPACE FACEBOOK GROUPVIVIFY INSTAGRAMVIVIFY FACEBOOKVIVIFY XVIVIFY TIKTOKVIVIFY YOUTUBE

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