NAU Regents’ Professor of chemistry & biochemistry Jani Ingram has been named the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) 2025 Distinguished Scientist, a national honor recognizing her decades-long commitment to scientific excellence, mentorship and advocacy for scientists from underrepresented communities.
The award will be presented this weekend at the SACNAS National Diversity in STEM (NDiSTEM) Conference in Columbus, Ohio, at a celebration of Ingram’s leadership in environmental health research and dedication to mentoring Native American students.
Ingram, a member of the Navajo Nation, conducts research focusing on the health impact of environmental contaminants in at-risk populations. She leads the Partnership for Native American Cancer Prevention and directs the Bridges to Baccalaureate program, both of which aim to increase representation and success of Indigenous students in science.
“It is an honor to be recognized by the SACNAS organization, which values excellence in science alongside respect for culture and inclusiveness,” Ingram said. “I’ve been a ‘SACNISTA’ since coming to NAU in 2002, and this award is deeply meaningful to me.”
The SACNAS Distinguished Scientist Award is given annually to a researcher with at least 10 years of experience as a principal investigator and a national record of contributions to STEM education and research. Since its inception in 1997, SACNAS has honored more than 135 scientists, educators and program directors who embody the organization’s mission to advance Chicano/Hispanic and Native American scientists.
Ingram was nominated by NAU chemistry colleague Naomi Lee, then selected from a competitive pool of candidates by a committee of her peers.
“We are very happy to have Jani Ingram as our Distinguished Scientist this year for SACNAS,” said Casey Dorr, chair of the SACNAS Distinguished Awards Task Force. “She has a strong history of publication, grant funding and mentorship, and she has played major roles in advancing Chicanos and Native Americans in science. She is a role model for our SACNAS members nationwide and is well deserving of this honor.”
Before joining NAU’s faculty in 2002, Ingram worked as a staff scientist at the Idaho National Laboratory. She’s previously been honored with the American Chemical Society’s Award for Encouraging Disadvantaged Students into Careers in the Chemical Sciences and the American Indian Science and Engineering Society’s Ely S. Parker Award.
When asked what advice she would give to young scientists who hope to improve Indigenous lives through research, Ingram emphasized the importance of collaboration and cultural understanding.
“I recommend developing relationships with community members, other researchers and peers to work together on projects,” she said. “It’s also important to seek advice from elders to understand the communities’ interests and concerns.”
The SACNAS NDiSTEM Conference is the largest multidisciplinary and multicultural STEM diversity event in the country, bringing together thousands of students and professionals each year to celebrate and advance diversity in science.
Jill Kimball | NAU Communications
(928) 523-2282 | jill.kimball@nau.edu