P. Bryant Chase, Ph.D., F.A.H.A.

Professor, Department of Biological Science

The Florida State University
Biology Unit One Building Room 206, 81 Chieftain Way
P.O. Box 3064370
Tallahassee, FL 32306-4370 USA
Telephone:
850/644-0392
Fax:
850/644-0481
email:
chase@bio.fsu.edu

23 October 2013
Dr. John L. Williams
Department of Natural Science Biology
College of Science and Health Professions
Albany State University
Albany, GA 31705
Dear John,
On behalf of Prof. Zuoxin Wang and myself, I want to sincerely thank you for your willingness to
participate in a discussion panel on the topic of Women and Minorities in Science in Florida State
Universitys Responsible Conduct of Research course (PSB 5077 / PSY 4920 / BSC 4931) on the
afternoon of Friday 18 October 2013. This years classconsisting of a total of 21 students, and
comprised of a multidisciplinary group of 17 graduate students and four undergraduate studentsis
as diverse as ever. You and the entire panel set just the right tone and fostered a wonderful
discussion, which I fully appreciate can be a challenge with such a large group of students. Your
insightful comments were valuable to the students as they contemplate pursuing a research and
teaching-oriented career.
It has become evident to me over the years of participating in this course that the academic climate
for women and minorities has been improving, and continues to do so. I find it notable that, in the
last five years, the vast majority of studentsboth women and menreport not having experienced
or observed significant discrimination against women. I have great hope for this next generation of
scientists, and know that your contributions have a significant and positive impact on them.
Sincerely,

P. Bryant Chase, Ph.D., F.A.H.A.

Professor of Biological Science
Cc:

Dr. Zuoxin Wang

Dr. Louise Wrensford