Freeman Hrabowski, a mathematician from Alabama, was inspired to join the civil rights movement after hearing Martin Luther King Jr. speak. Even as a child, he recognized the need for change and would later make significant impacts at the University of Maryland Baltimore County. There, he co-founded the Meyerhoff Scholars Program, a prominent pathway for Black students in STEM subjects in the United States.
Freeman is featured in the first installment of a new series in Nature that highlights ‘Changemakers’ in science – individuals who actively combat racism and promote inclusivity. In his interview, he discusses his life, work, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind.
During his career, Freeman has made it a point to challenge his white colleagues to understand the experiences of Black students by walking in their shoes for a day. This unique perspective has allowed him to foster greater empathy and awareness among his peers, leading to a more inclusive environment for all students.
To hear more from Freeman and other inspiring individuals, be sure to subscribe to the Nature Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube Music or your favorite podcast app. An RSS feed for the Nature Podcast is also available for those who prefer this method of listening.
