
LOG-01Mentorship
Churchland High School
Hosted four high school students from Churchland High School at Norfolk State University's Organic Materials Lab, where they spent a week doing research with organic optoelectronic materials. They presented their work to NSU faculty, students, and parents, and the Portsmouth Public School system recognized their effort on X (formerly Twitter).

LOG-02Mentorship
Norfolk State University
Through NSU's Center for Materials Research, Dr. Lee — in collaboration with Old Dominion University — served on the Career Pathways Steering Committee, helping graduate students improve their research skills. He gave two talks under NSU's NSF CREST-CREAM grant on presentation skills and resumes, gifted participants laser pointers for future use, and mentored graduate students in research.

LOG-03Speaking
Old Dominion University
A great opportunity to present at Old Dominion University and to tour their new Chemistry building.

LOG-04Award
38th BEYA STEM Conference
Awarded the Modern-Day Technology Leader award. These awardees are bright women and men who are shaping the future of engineering, science, and technology.

LOG-05Media
The Doc Chat™ — Season 3, Ep. 4
Featured guest on The Doc Chat™ by Dr. John C. Turner.

LOG-06Speaking
NOBCChE 2024 National Conference
Spoke on "Opportunity Prefers the Prepared." Opportunities come anytime, so being prepared is crucial. While we can't control when opportunities arrive, we can control our readiness to seize them.

LOG-07Award
39th BEYA STEM Conference
Awarded the Science Spectrum Trailblazer award. Trailblazers are men and women actively creating new paths for others in science, research, technology, and development — distinguished by constantly setting their sights higher, striving to innovate, and opening doors for others.

LOG-08Speaking
Emerging Researchers National 2025
Honored to speak on communicating difficult topics in STEM. "Less is More: The Secrets to Complex Communication" explores simplifying ideas without losing impact — strategies to cut noise, engage audiences, and strengthen your message. Say more with less and increase your influence.

LOG-09Keynote
Fayetteville State University Research Symposium
Keynote at FSU's 4th Annual Student Research Symposium — "Adversity is Inevitable" — on career challenges and how to overcome them. Also spoke to the College of Health, Science, and Technology on "STEM Off the Beaten Path." Success depends on effort, reputation, and preparation, not where you come from.

LOG-10Media
Teach the Geek Podcast
An incredible opportunity to speak with Neil about professionalism and public speaking throughout a STEM career.
Watch Episode →
LOG-11Media
Webinar with Dr. Deanna K.
Guest webinar appearance with Dr. Deanna K.

LOG-12Speaking
Emerging Researchers National 2026
A strong turnout for a talk on choosing a career in academia, industry, or government labs — covering the differences and how to prepare for transitions. Introduced a five-point scoring system evaluating compensation, research freedom, work/life balance, impact & mission, and career entry & advancement. Attendees ranged from college freshmen to postdocs.