The University of New Mexico International Society for Optics and Photonics (SPIE) Student Chapter, led by President Mega Frost, successfully revitalized itself following several 7 years of inactivity and a delay caused by the COVID-19 pandemic according to a UNM Newsroom article published on Thursday. The club has been working hard to create outreach programs, welcome speakers from industry and research institutions, and promote the professional and academic growth of its student members.
SPIE first elected its board in March, with many members feeling the need to restart the chapter after it had gained a large amount of interest in December. Frost agreed to head the club’s revitalization project, and the UNM Optical Sciences and Engineering Department (OSE) supported the club’s actions.
"There are a number of goals we want to work towards within the chapter, and involvement to any degree is welcome," said Frost.
The club is making a dedicated push to reach out to schools on New Mexico reservations, such as the Navajo Reservation, and other underrepresented communities in science-related fields. Both undergraduate and graduate students are encouraged to take part, even if they are high school interns. SPIE said that said students’ involvement is valued regardless of student status, and participation is not limited based on departments.
SPIE is strongly committed to community-focused volunteering, promoting any individuals interested in optics, STEM, SBIC. Volunteers can take part in multiple events such as STEM outreach events, trips to high schools and elementary schools, science fairs, and festivals in and around Albuquerque such as the Lavender Festival and the Balloon Fiesta. Recently, SPIE hosted a large event for the International Day of Light, which SPG, the National Escape, celebrates in honor of the anniversary of the invention of the laser.
“The more involvement we get from our general student members, the better and healthier the chapter can grow," Frost said.