Born: 1953 (Chicago, Illinois)
Biography:
Gretchen Lynn Kalonji, born on April 13, 1953, in Chicago, Illinois, is an American materials scientist and academic administrator. She has made significant contributions to the field of materials science and has held various notable positions in academia and international organizations.
Kalonji’s childhood was marked by frequent relocations, largely due to her journalist parents’ work. From the age of seven, she grew up moving between India, Hong Kong, Thailand, and East Africa. Her diverse upbringing exposed her to different cultures and environments, shaping her perspectives and fostering her curiosity.
During her time in Hong Kong, Kalonji was caught up in the 1967 leftist riots. As part of the unrest, she participated in the siege of the U.S. embassy and voiced her opposition to the Vietnam War through protests. These experiences, though tumultuous, instilled in her a sense of activism and the importance of challenging injustice.
Despite facing academic challenges, including being kicked out of school twice in Hong Kong and once in East Africa, Kalonji persevered and sought opportunities to learn practical skills. She ventured into metallurgy and acquired expertise in various areas, such as welding, milling, turning, elementary design, and drafting.
Kalonji’s journey in higher education commenced when she enrolled as a special student at the University of Maryland, College Park. Since she hadn’t completed a high school diploma, this was a significant step. At the university, she focused on chemistry and materials science, laying the foundation for her future studies and career.
Her encounter with Julia McCormick, the admissions director at MIT, proved transformative. Inspired by McCormick, Kalonji commenced her undergraduate coursework at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in February 1979. In just over three years, she earned a B.Sc. degree, and in 1982, she completed a Ph.D. in materials science and engineering.
During her time at MIT, Kalonji also engaged deeply in activism, particularly advocating against apartheid in South Africa. She co-directed the Computer Science and Electronics Program at Solomon Mahlangu Freedom College, working tirelessly to raise awareness about the injustices and promote divestment campaigns.
In 1990, Kalonji joined the University of Washington as the Kyocera Professor of Materials Science, further solidifying her reputation as a leading scientist. Her research and teaching contributions significantly advanced the field, earning her recognition and respect from her peers.
Continuing her pursuit of excellence, Kalonji later joined the University of California, where she served in various roles. From 2005 to 2009, she directed international strategy development, and from 2009 to 2010, she led system-wide research development. Additionally, she became a professor in the electrical engineering department at the University of California, Santa Cruz, in 2006.
Kalonji’s expertise and dedication to the promotion of science and education caught the attention of UNESCO. In July 2010, she assumed the position of assistant director-general for natural sciences. Her responsibilities included overseeing various initiatives and programs aimed at advancing scientific research and contributing to sustainable development globally.
Throughout her career, Gretchen Kalonji has made valuable contributions both as a scientist and as an advocate for social justice. Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of education and the importance of activism in shaping a better future for all.