Hello, I'm Dr. Fatima Alleyne
CEO / BeyondDEIBA
I am Dr. Fatima Alleyne and I am honored to call Brownsville, Brooklyn, New York my hometown. Growing up, I held three core values – a deep love of family, academic excellence, and service to others. Watching my mother, Connie Johnson, work two jobs to provide me with the best educational opportunities, confirmed she was and will always be a superhero to me.
My grandparents also played a huge role in shaping who I am today. My grandfather's motto, "They can take anything away from you, but they can never take away your education," has stuck with me throughout my journey. It’s a reminder of the power of knowledge and the doors it can open.
Baby Fatima '79
After graduating from high school, my plan was to pursue a Biology degree at the State University of New York, Buffalo. However, life had other plans when I found out I was pregnant with my first child.
Fatima & Mother Connie
Determined to continue my education, I enrolled in my local community college, City University of New York. I obtained my A.S. in Physical Sciences from the City University of New York, Medgar Evers College, and went on to receive my B.A. in Chemistry from City University of New York, Hunter College.
Teenage Fatima
During my time at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where I conducted research in materials science and engineering, my scholarly identity in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) was solidified, leading me to pursue an advanced degree in the field.
Outside of my work, I love being involved in my community and spending quality time with my family. Traveling the world with my husband and four children is one of our favorite ways to bond and explore new cultures. I'm grateful for the values instilled in me by my family and the opportunities I've had to pursue my passions. It's my mission to inspire and empower others, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, to pursue their dreams in STEM and make a positive impact on the world.
CAREER
Dr. Alleyne has experience across STEM research, STEM education, government, private and nonprofits, and has served as an elected official.
EDUCATION SECTOR
University of California, Berkeley
Director of Community Engagement and Inclusive Practices (2020 — 2023)
Director of Faculty Engagement (2018 — 2020)
Research Specialist (2013)
Education and Outreach Coordinator, Scalable and Integrated Nanomanufacturing Center (2009 — 2011)
GOVERNMENT
Trustee and Board President, Contra Costa County Board of Education (State), (2016 — 2020)
General Research Engineer, Healthy Processed Foods Research Unit, United States Department of Agriculture (2014 — 2016)
NONPROFIT
Chief Diversity and Ethics Officer, American Physical Society (2023)
Educational Consultant, Center for Restorative Solutions (2015 — 2021)
Consultant, Girls Inc. of Richmond (2014)