Inés Cifuentes facts for kids

Inés Lucia Cifuentes (born April 26, 1954 – died December 16, 2013) was an amazing scientist and teacher. She was born in England but became an American. Inés studied seismology, which is the science of earthquakes. From 1994 to 2005, she led the Carnegie Academy for Science Education. This group helps teach science to others.

Growing Up and Discovering Science

Inés Cifuentes was born in London, England. Her father was from Ecuador, and her mother was from New York City. Both of her parents worked for the United Nations. This meant Inés got to live and learn in many different countries. She lived in places like Ecuador, Chile, Paraguay, and Guatemala.

While living in Chile, Inés found her passion for science. In 1960, a very strong earthquake hit Santiago, Chile. Sadly, about 1,000 people died. This event made a big impact on Inés. From that moment, she knew she wanted to study earthquakes. She wanted to become a seismologist.

In 1972, Inés finished high school in Maryland. She then went to college and earned a degree in physics. Later, she got a master's degree in geophysics from Stanford University in 1979.

Her Amazing Career

After her studies, Inés Cifuentes started working at the United States Geological Survey. This is a government agency that studies the Earth. Even though it was tough, Inés kept working hard. She earned her PhD from Columbia University in 1988. She was the very first woman to get a doctorate in geophysics from Columbia!

After her PhD, she continued her research in Paris, France. When she came back to the United States, she joined the Carnegie Academy for Science Education. Later, in 2005, she started working for the American Geophysical Union. There, she helped manage education and career services for scientists.

Family Life

In 1983, Inés Cifuentes married Frank Aikman. They had two children together. Their names are Benjamin C. Aikman and Julia N. Aikman.

Making a Difference in Science and Education

Inés Cifuentes was recognized for her important work. In 2006, she was named the "National Hispanic Scientist of the Year." This award came from the Museum of Science & Industry in Tampa. The next year, in 2007, she received an award for her work in math and science. This was from the Hispanic Heritage Foundation.

Inés also worked with an organization called CASE. She helped train about 100 elementary school teachers in Washington. She taught them science and math during a summer program. Then, she continued to work with them at their schools throughout the year.

In the early 2000s, Inés tried to open a special school. This school would have helped students from minority groups. Her goal was to help these students improve their test scores. Even though her plan didn't work out, it showed her dedication to helping young people.

Inés Cifuentes was also involved with other important groups. She was the board president of Casa de Maryland. This group helps immigrants and supports their rights. She also helped lead a dance company called Dance Exchange in Takoma Park.

Her Later Years

Inés Cifuentes passed away at her home in Takoma Park. She was 59 years old.

Learn More

In Spanish: Inés Cifuentes para niños