Dr. Uma Balaji is an Associate Professor and Chair of the Electrical and Biomedical Engineering Department at Fairfield University. She brings extensive experience in developing STEM education programs focused on robotics and sustainability for underserved communities. As a faculty mentor in the Broadening Access to Science Education (BASE) Camp, she guided female high school students, with support from women undergraduate counselors, in building an obstacle-avoiding robot using basic components—all within just one week. Collaborating with local teachers and administrators, she continues to engage K-12 students in hands-on, sustainability-focused STEM activities, encouraging them to embrace sustainable practices. She also works with youth from local after-school programs to foster a STEM pipeline, helping cultivate the next generation of innovators. In recognition of her impactful work, Dr. Balaji received the 2023 IEEE Region 1 Outstanding Teaching Award in an IEEE area of interest (Pre-University or College), as well as the Jeffrey P. von Arx, S.J. Award for Excellence in Community Engagement from Fairfield University in 2024.