100 Reputable Women of African Descent 2025: Dr. Jedidah Isler Shines in Astrophysics and Equity

We’re excited to announce Dr. Jedidah Isler as one of the 100 Reputable Women of African Descent for 2025 a brilliant scientist and leader whose work in astrophysics, education, and fairness is lighting up the world. She’s an amazing woman who uses science to help people, and her story of big dreams and hard work makes her a perfect choice for this honor on our website. Even more thrilling, she’ll receive her Certificate of Appreciation at the Africa Women’s Summit in Egypt, where her incredible impact will be celebrated.
Dr. Isler’s journey started at two great schools Norfolk State University and Fisk University where she discovered her love for the stars. She went to Yale University and made history as the first African American woman to earn a Ph.D. in astrophysics, studying giant black holes that brighten the universe. Her clever ideas won her awards and led her to Dartmouth College, where she taught and dug deeper into space. Still, she wanted science to do more, so she joined the White House Office of Science & Technology Policy to help make big decisions about how science can fix real problems.
In January 2025, Dr. Isler started an exciting new job as the first Chief Science Officer at the Federation of American Scientists. This role lets her blend science with plans to tackle big challenges, making sure technology helps everyone, not just a few. She’s always believed science should be open to all, no matter who they are. That’s why she travels across the United States, talking to students, schools, and groups about how fun and important science is. Her web series, Vanguard: Conversations with Women of Color in STEM, shares stories of women like her, showing young girls they can be scientists too.
Living near Washington, D.C., in the DMV area with her wonderful family, Dr. Isler stays grounded while reaching for the stars. She’s proof you can start small and do huge things. From her school days to her latest job in 2025, she’s worked hard to make science fair and welcoming for all. She’s not just a smart astrophysicist she’s a role model who shows African women and girls what they can achieve when they follow their dreams.
When you look up amazing women in science, Dr. Jedidah Isler stands out because she’s a leader in astrophysics, fairness, and helping others. She’s one of the 100 Reputable Women of African Descent we’re proud to celebrate in 2025, and her Certificate of Appreciation will be presented at the Africa Women’s Summit in Egypt a perfect place to honor her work. Her life inspires kids, teachers, and anyone who wants to make the world a better place. Dr. Isler isn’t just studying the universe she’s building a brighter future right here on Earth, and we can’t wait to share her story with you.