Joanne Tillotson
State University of New York at Purchase
For distinguished accomplishments and commitment to promoting scientific excellence through dedication to cancer research, expanding approaches to teaching, and cultivating the next generations with a longstanding devotion to GIAR.
Quote
"Reading and evaluating GIAR grant applications has been both rewarding and educational, but mostly I am inspired by the diversity and drive of our next generation of scientists. I am grateful that we, as a Society, have made it a priority to encourage these young people and to provide financial, ethical, and mentoring resources for them. I also appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of the GIAR committee. With its collaborative members, guest readers, and leaders, I have enjoyed spending many hours reading those applications and discussing their merits."
Biography
Joanne Kivela Tillotson is a biochemist, cell biologist, and retired professor of undergraduate biology at State University of New York at Purchase. She especially enjoyed teaching laboratory skills and introducing students to research. Her own research, assisted by many undergraduate students, has involved understanding the role of certain selenium compounds and especially fatty acid nutrition in the metabolism of cancer cells.
Dr. Tillotson served as Co-PI and research mentor for 10 summers in programs where Purchase College collaborated with local community colleges to encourage underrepresented minority students to continue their science education at the baccalaureate and graduate levels, by providing resources and summer research experiences.
She was active in the Sigma Xi chapter at Purchase, served as treasurer, and was privileged to serve as the chapter delegate to several Annual Meetings. Dr. Tillotson was elected associate director for the Baccalaureate College constituency group for a 3-year term and has served on the GIAR committee.