The University of the Sacred Heart in San Juan, Puerto Rico, recently honored Dr. Roselin Rosario-Meléndez, a Puerto Rican scientist with an impressive international career, for her contributions to the field of science. The recognition took place during the second edition of the Women in Science Speaker Series, an annual event dedicated to celebrating the achievements of women in STEM.
Dr. Rosario-Meléndez, who boasts over a decade of experience in scientific industrial research, was specifically recognized for her work in polymer chemistry, her status as an inventor of more than 50 patents globally, and her dedication to increasing the participation of women and girls in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. She also serves as an ambassador for the If/Then program of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).
During her presentation, titled “Persistir, descubrir y liderar: una vida dedicada a la ciencia” (To persist, discover, and lead: a life dedicated to science), Dr. Rosario-Meléndez shared her personal journey from her childhood in Aibonito, Puerto Rico, to earning a PhD, working at L’Oréal, and ultimately becoming a business owner. She emphasized the importance of mentorship and having role models for young women considering careers in STEM. “My love for STEM began when I discovered, already in college, that doing research in a laboratory was my passion,” she shared. “The best thing about being in this field is the possibility of creating what does not exist, inventing and transforming ideas into solutions that can change the world. I tell young women interested in STEM to look for opportunities, learn everything they can and don’t be afraid to ask for guidance. They don’t have to do it alone. There will always be someone willing to share their story.”
The University of the Sacred Heart, founded by women and committed to fostering female talent, views encouraging young women to pursue science as a core part of its mission. Dr. Bianca Valdés, dean of the School of Health and Sciences, stated, “Recognizing Dr. Rosario Meléndez is recognizing the extraordinary potential that Puerto Rican women have in science. Her career demonstrates that young women have the power to impact global knowledge, and her example paves the way for our students to see themselves as future researchers, innovators and leaders in STEM.”
The event also benefited from the support of L’Oréal Caribe and its For Women in Science program. Liana Camacho, VP Market Lead of L’Oréal Caribe, explained the company’s commitment to supporting women in STEM, stating, “At L’Oréal Caribe we firmly believe in the power of promoting future generations of women scientists. Supporting them is opening space for them to share their talent, their knowledge and their vision so that they can transform the world with science and innovation. That commitment is an essential part of our values and the mark we want to leave in our region.”
Dr. Rosario-Meléndez’s story highlights the ongoing need to address gender disparities in STEM fields. While she didn’t initially have significant exposure to STEM in high school, her passion for science and mathematics ultimately led her to pursue a Bachelor of Science in chemistry from the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey and a PhD in polymer chemistry from Rutgers University. Her subsequent work has included developing biomaterials for drug delivery and formulating cosmetics, resulting in over 50 patent applications worldwide.
The University of the Sacred Heart offers a range of academic programs, including associate, bachelor’s, post-baccalaureate certificates, and master’s degrees in health and natural sciences, business, communication, arts, design, and multidisciplinary studies. The university is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) since 1950 and emphasizes a commitment to social responsibility and ethics in its curricula. Open house events are scheduled for and , offering prospective students opportunities to tour the campus and speak with advisors.
The recognition of Dr. Rosario-Meléndez serves as an inspiration to aspiring scientists, particularly young women in Puerto Rico, and underscores the importance of creating supportive environments that encourage and celebrate their contributions to the scientific community. The event, which was also covered by Wapa TV, a leading Puerto Rican television network, demonstrates a growing awareness of the need to elevate the visibility of women in STEM and provide them with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.