MISSION Welcome to the UGA Student Chapter of the American Society for Microbiology web page. We are affiliated with the South East Branch of the national ASM organization. Our mission is to promote education, research, and the application of microbiology within Georgia. We work to achieve these goals through our monthly membership meetings, guest lectures, joint ventures with other scientific societies, research symposia, K-12 outreach activities, and, of course, social activities. MEETINGS and EVENTS For more information about ASM's events, join ASM's Group Me or look out for event announcements via the listserv. WHO WE ARE Most members are microbiology majors, but there are also members majoring in biology, biochemistry, cell biology, and more. Many of our members are involved in research, and events hosted by ASM allow them to meet potential mentors and explore other areas of interest. Our chapter is dedicated to community involvement, and we have given presentations on different microbiology topics to elementary, middle, and high school students as part of their schools' STEM initiatives. We aim to help members with professional development by offering events such as resume/personal statement workshops, alumni panels, and guest speakers. We also aim to build community among microbiology students by hosting social events like semi-formals, cookie-decorating, and game nights. Our most anticipated event is Agar Art Night, modeled after the national ASM organization's contest. Students create art designs on agar plates with differently colored bacteria and the best design receives a prize. Introducing the UGA ASM Officers for 2025-2026 President | Ayden Mamaghani Vice President | Daniella Banos Lopez Treasurer | Rishika Akkinepally Career Development Chair | Colleen Murphy Social Activities Chair | Audrey Cowen