Waleska Aldana, a Guatemalan scientist and educator, has received international recognition for her contributions to science education. She was recently selected for the “Global Spotlight” program by the American Physical Society (APS), an organization with more than 48,000 members known for publishing respected scientific journals such as Physical Review and Physical Review Letters.
Aldana currently teaches at Universidad Galileo and is also a physics professor at the University of San Carlos of Guatemala (USAC). Her selection by APS highlights her commitment to promoting science, particularly in educational settings.
In her remarks, Aldana said: “GLOBE is a living network that teaches us to observe, understand and act together. It reminds us that science belongs to everyone and that every student, every teacher and every data point can make a difference.” This statement underscores her inclusive approach to science education, aiming to make it accessible beyond academic circles.
From an early age, Aldana developed an interest in nature. She recalls how star-filled nights in Guatemala sparked her curiosity about the world around her. This early fascination led her toward a career in physics and science education.
Currently, Aldana leads the binational STEAM program (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) between Guatemala and Mexico. Together with Julián Félix from the International STEM Network (GISN), she works on advancing science education across Latin America by encouraging younger generations to engage with these fields.
In 2020, Aldana was also recognized by the Faces of Exchange initiative, which honored 80 alumni from the International Visitor Leadership Program funded by the U.S. Department of State. This acknowledgment reflects the impact of her work on international education.
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