The Science Atlantic Board of Directors has a new member! Holly Butt is the first ever Student Representative on the Board.
Science Atlantic approved new by-laws in November 2023 to include broadening representation on the Board. Holly’s addition will guide the Board to become more aware of the needs and perspectives of students. “It’s also often more comfortable for students to express their concerns to a peer like myself, rather than approach a superior,” Holly adds.
Holly is excited to begin this new journey with Science Atlantic. Having grown up in a small town in Newfoundland called Bloomfield, she understands the importance of creating strong connections. She wants to ensure that students are aware of the resources that Science Atlantic offers. For example, at conferences, students are given the opportunity to connect with others in their chosen field of study, learn more about their academic interests, and present their work.
“On top of the obvious knowledge exchange and resource sharing, the connections help foster collaboration and teamwork – skills that are critical for effective research,” says Holly. Science Atlantic is all about making connections, not just between students, but also between faculty and researchers all around Atlantic Canada. Working in collaboration will push us toward a stronger future, and Holly Butt’s role is a new step in the right direction.
Holly is a student at Memorial University of Newfoundland and is currently in her third year of a BSc Honours in Behavioural Neuroscience. Holly has been drawn to science for most of her life. Her degree choice is a way of following the natural curiosity that she has had since she was a child.
“I’ve always been super fascinated with the mind and how incredible our brain is,” says Holly. “I grew up playing classical piano and have always been curious as to how music can make us feel emotions and even physical sensations like chills!”
Holly plans to apply to med school after she graduates next year. In the meantime, she keeps herself busy as an academic representative for the Psychology and Neuroscience Society at MUN. She mentors her peers with their academics and advocates for students at both the departmental and faculty levels.
As the Student Representative on the Board of Directors, Holly now has the opportunity to use her skills in student advocacy with Science Atlantic. She will bring the voices of a whole new generation of people to the Board’s meetings.