Joann Ransom has been working for The National GEM Consortium for the past six years. She currently serves as Programs Manager for the organization’s operation team. Most of her duties involve strategically developing and organizing the organizations programs. More specifically, educating her younger constituents on the importance of continuing their graduate education. When Joann was still in college at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, she was interested in two things: marketing and community development. Specializing in business, Joann graduated with honors with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing.
Upon graduation, Joann held a few internships with the United States Department of Agriculture working on marketing campaigns. Although working within her field, she was not fulfilled within that position and took a leap of faith by resigning. Joann is a strong believer in “the universe will always work itself out”. It was not long after leaving the USDA that she would begin her first professional career at The National GEM Consortium. Joann has worked on successfully administering GEM’s programming that have increased fellowship applications by 20% since being onboarded. She has also implemented a virtual component of the Getting Ready for Advanced Degrees (GRAD Lab) Laboratory. Passionate about bridging the gap of underrepresented minorities who hold graduate degrees within STEM, Joann continually strategizes ways to reach larger audiences.
In her spare time, Joann is a small business owner. She specializes in candle making and home décor. Fashion is a true passion for this diva, lol. When not ripping the runway, Joann also is a 4th grade Youth Development Mentor in the District of Columbia.