My interest in STEM was born during my Master’s studies in Human-Computer Interaction, where I first explored the synergy between humans and machines. It was then that I discovered the potential of bridging my background in social sciences with advanced technological applications. By integrating these two worlds, I found my passion for creating user-centered technology that is grounded in deep social and behavioral understanding.
Your organization field and mission:
Higher Education.
Please tell us briefly about your role in the company / at your organization:
I am an Associate Professor at the University of West Attica in the Department of Archival, Library, and Information Studies. My work focuses on teaching and research in cultural informatics, museum studies, and the integration of adaptive technologies in heritage settings. I lead innovative research projects that bridge the gap between technology and culture, aiming to enhance how we experience and preserve heritage.
Your interest in STEM
My first and most enduring role model since I entered academia in 2004 is Emeritus Professor Christina Agriantoni. I have always deeply admired her not only for her extensive knowledge and academic excellence but also for her exceptional character and unique ethos. She is an amazing woman who has selflessly supported my career every step of the way, proving that true leadership is rooted in generosity and integrity.
Your studies
My biggest challenge was transitioning from a Social Science background to the technical demands of HCI, which required mastering new methodologies and “”thinking”” in STEM. I initially struggled to reconcile qualitative human behavior with rigid technical constraints, but this challenge eventually became my greatest strength in user-centered design.
My advice to girls and women is to embrace your unique background and never feel limited by a non-technical start, as the most innovative solutions in STEM emerge at the intersection of social sciences and technology. Seek out mentors and role models who lead with integrity and selfless ethos, as their guidance will be your most valuable asset during challenging transitions.
You at work
At the University of West Attica, we address Diversity and Equity through the operation of the Gender Equality and Anti-Discrimination Committee, which works to establish basic frameworks for equal treatment and mediation within the academic community. Regarding Inclusion, while we face the common resource challenges of public institutions, we strive to maintain accessible infrastructure and provide support to students with disabilities through departmental initiatives and digital accessibility guidelines. In terms of Sustainability, the university has taken its first steps by participating in international “Green” rankings and implementing basic energy-saving and recycling programs across our campuses to align with broader environmental goals.
Beyond my research in bridging social sciences with technology, I am most proud of the meaningful connections I’ve built with my students and the support I provide for their professional growth. Drawing inspiration from my own mentor’s selfless ethos, I strive to create an inclusive environment where students feel empowered to explore interdisciplinary paths.
Your point of view
Technology empowers women by providing flexible access to specialized knowledge and global networks, breaking down the traditional geographical and social barriers that often limit professional growth. In my field of Human-Computer Interaction, it specifically offers the tools to design inclusive systems that amplify diverse voices and ensure that digital spaces reflect human values rather than just technical constraints.
My advice to girls and women is to recognize that our greatest power lies in unity and collective support rather than individual competition. To truly thrive in this sector, we must first do the internal work of identifying and shedding our own internalized gender biases, as recognizing these hidden patterns is the only way to effectively spot and challenge them in the workplace. By combining this self-awareness with a commitment to lifting each other up, we can transform the technical landscape into a more equitable space for everyone.
By 2030, I would like to see DEIS evolve from a set of formal policies into a natural, internalized culture where diversity is recognized as a fundamental driver of technical innovation rather than a secondary goal.
To finish with
My core values are rooted in deep mutual respect and the belief that the strongest professional foundations are built on a human level first. I strive to cultivate long-lasting collaborations and teams where the focus is on collective support rather than rigid power structures or competitive games. By fostering an environment of transparency and genuine care, we can move away from traditional hierarchies and create a workspace where everyone feels empowered to contribute their best work through unity and shared purpose.
My greatest future challenge is maintaining a dynamic relevance as I grow older, ensuring that I continue to adapt to shifting societal needs so that my teaching remains resonant and impactful for future generations of students. Professionally, I am driven to find innovative ways to bridge the arts with science, moving beyond traditional boundaries to create a holistic academic space where creativity and technical rigor coexist.
By 2030, I hope to have solidified a seamless bridge between the arts and sciences, moving beyond theoretical boundaries to create practical, interdisciplinary frameworks that enrich both culture and technology.
The current activity has been implemented in the framework of the Project: Code4Europe,
GA Number: 101158834. Official project website : https://codeweek.eu/