Manessa Lormejuste

As a coordinator for Queen's University's Women in Science and Engineering networking event, I had the pleasure of connecting with Manessa and engaging in her keynote speaker presentation highlighting her journey to how she got to her career today. Manessa was fantastic to listen to and inspired not only me but all of the other women attending our event. Her communication and willingness to engage and provide guidance to university students pursuing science-related fields was remarkable. I would highly recommend Manessa to anyone hosting a speaking engagement if you are looking for a well-spoken and actively engaged individual.

Manessa was one of the most poised and interesting speakers we had present at the SAS Connect event, which featured Rutgers School of Arts and Sciences alumni speaking with over 130 students and other alumni about how they found a sense of purpose in their careers. Manessa drew in the audience with an comfortable speaking style that included sharing some of her personal interests and passions and how enthusiastic pursuit of her varied interests led her to an internship that opened doors for her career today. As many students struggle with choosing among divergent interests to pursue a major or career, she was able to address their anxieties by demonstrating how she has been able to weave together many of her interests as she has pursued her career. From an event organizer perspective, she was also wonderful to work with. She communicates promptly and professionally and she brings her "A game" to events, despite managing a career and additional schooling. In addition to the event I managed, I have seen Manessa speak at other events, including a small event for the French Department. She was comfortable relating to students and professionals in both the large and small settings and she brings both precision and warmth to the stories she shares. Students, alumni and staff have all commented on how interesting her stories were and how easy she was to relate well with. I highly recommend Manessa for a variety of speaking engagements. She is a scientist who enjoys her work and has the ability to not only discuss the technical elements of her work, but to do so in a way that can engage and inform many types of audiences. She also has a passion for helping young adults to navigate the difficult decisions that face them as they transition from college to a career.

I had the pleasure of working with Manessa when she spoke and facilitated a session for my event. She was absolutely amazing! Her bubbly and engaging personality is truly one of a kind. She led a very informative session on common myths in the makeup, skincare, and beauty industry. Since I told Manessa about the event idea, she was very easy to work with. She came prepared and ready to facilitate her session. Many event attendees came up to me after to let me know how amazing Manessa was. I look forward to working with her again.

Manessa gave my students a wonderful look at what it takes to be a science professional. My students were so inspired by Manessa's career journey and they were excited to learn more. Manessa took the time to answer student questions and her responses reflected not only her wealth of knowledge and expertise in her field but also the love and passion she shares for teaching and inspiring others to pursue a career in science. Thank you so much Manessa!