Karen Romano Young

What’s the work that you do?

(1) I write books about science research (Antarctica: The Melting Continent); (2) I research, write, and illustrate a regular science comic, #AntarcticLog, which covers climate change research, policy, education, and activism at both poles and worldwide, now in its 260th iteration; (3) I’m the founder and creator of I Was A Kid, a project designed to increase diversity in STEAM, with a particular focus on polar science. My work has made me part of three polar expeditions, to the Arctic (NASA ICESCAPE, 2010); to Palmer Station, Antarctica (NSF Antarctic Artists and Writers grant); and to the Amundsen Sea (IODP Expedition #379).

What keeps you going?

I use visual story and writing to portray the work and lived experience of people working in science and those who support them. My passion is to increase the number and diversity of young people learning about, gaining confidence in, and entering science fields, especially at the extreme latitudes. I believe in the importance of coordinating and connecting with Indigenous people and traditional knowledge. I bring a broad background in education and publishing, as well as art, to these fields, helping diversify it myself and through my books, comics, and education and outreach materials.

What’s your message to the world?

Science needs ALL the viewpoints. Up to about age 9, children are well supported in developing understanding and enthusiasm for the sciences. But research tells us that middle school is the key age for developing the science identity that comes from positive experiences and models that reflect personal background and interests, as well as multiple intelligences and viewpoints. Through presenting multimedia stories to young people, I am determined to help them understand what is happening at the poles and how it affects us worldwide — and to helping them see roles for themselves in these places and research efforts.