HAMPTON, Va. (April 9, 2025) — The Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at Hampton University proudly launched its inaugural, annual Seminar Program on March 24, marking a new tradition of academic excellence, inspiration, and innovation. This milestone event welcomed back distinguished alumna Dr. LaTonya Kilpatrick-Liverman ’86—renowned pharmaceutical executive, scientist, and advocate for women in STEM—for a powerful keynote address that not only captivated the audience, but also sparked meaningful dialogue, inspired future scientific exploration, and reaffirmed the transformative power of a Hampton education.”
Dr. Kilpatrick-Liverman, a renowned leader in scientific innovation and communication at Fortune 500 company Colgate-Palmolive Co., delivered insights on the intersection of clinical research, innovation, and health equity. With over 30 years of experience in skin and oral biology research, she leads Colgate’s Clinical Research Innovation and Scientific Communications Team, which is responsible for developing and evaluating technologies that prevent and reduce oral diseases globally.
Previously serving as Worldwide Director for Colgate’s Oral Care & Global Devices group, Dr. Kilpatrick-Liverman spearheaded groundbreaking work on health-monitoring devices and wellness-targeted solutions using cutting-edge science and interdisciplinary technology.
Her seminar also reflected her deep commitment to education and outreach, as she has actively volunteered with programs sponsored by Colgate-Palmolive, the American Chemical Society, the Mentor Project, and community organizations nationwide.
The new seminar series is a formal expansion of the department’s longstanding tradition of inviting alumni back to share their postgraduate journeys with current students. It has been made possible through a generous gift from Dr. Isai T. Urasa ’70, Professor Emeritus and former department chair, who served Hampton for nearly four decades before retiring in 2022.
“The Annual Seminar Program intends to bring highly accomplished Hampton University Alumni to spotlight the legacy, inspiration, and the enduring excellence of Hampton-trained scientists,” said Dr. Kesete Ghebreyessus, Chair of the department of chemistry and biochemistry. “This also provides a unique opportunity to our current students to learn from those who walked before them in how to navigate their academic journey and inspire their future career path in industry, academia and public health.”
With more than 75% of its graduates pursuing advanced degrees at world-renowned institutions including Princeton, Harvard, Duke, and Johns Hopkins, Hampton’s Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry stands as a powerful engine for change—championing excellence, advancing innovation, and elevating the visibility of HBCU-trained talent in the global STEM landscape. Rooted in the rich legacy of Hampton’s mission and driven by a commitment to academic rigor, the department prepares scientists who are not only exceptionally skilled but also culturally competent, socially conscious, and equipped with a global viewpoint. These graduates are reshaping what leadership looks like in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—breaking new ground in research, education, and industry across the world.
“Hampton University continues to produce some of the best and brightest students that matriculate into different aspects of the STEM fields and more,” said School of Science Dean Dr. Isi Ero-Johnson.
“We’re proud of our graduates that continue to make positive impacts in their areas of expertise and through their career trajectories.”
As the department continues to build on its legacy of excellence, the annual program will serve as a dynamic platform to spotlight these remarkable success stories. Through keynote presentations, alumni panels, and student research showcases, the seminar series will celebrate the achievements of Hampton-trained scientists who are breaking barriers, leading cutting-edge research, and transforming industries around the globe. Just as importantly, the program will foster meaningful connections between past and present generations of Hampton scientists—creating a vibrant, intergenerational network of mentorship, inspiration, and shared purpose that strengthens the department’s enduring impact on the scientific community and the world beyond.
About Hampton University
Hampton University is a Carnegie R2-designated research institution, recognized for its groundbreaking research in atmospheric science, cancer treatment, and cybersecurity. Contributing $530 million annually to the regional and Commonwealth of Virginia economies, Hampton plays a vital role in driving economic development while championing diversity, inclusion, and opportunity. The university was recently named one of the “Best Colleges in America” by Money Magazine and recognized as the “Best Private College” by Coastal Virginia.
Founded in 1868, Hampton University is a close-knit community of learners and educators representing 44 states and 32 territories, committed to nurturing intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and global citizenship. For more information, visit www.hamptonu.edu.
For media inquiries regarding Hampton University, please contact Mahogany Waldon in the Office of University Relations, mahogany.waldon@hamptonu.edu or 757-727-5253.
