UF Alumna Moves From Imposter Syndrome to Inspiring Change
Former chemistry student Pascale Atallah empowers students with an endowment
Pascale Atallah (PhD ’13) isn’t just an accomplished leader in the world of chemistry. She’s also a fierce advocate for education. Born and raised in Lebanon, where women find limited opportunities, Atallah doesn’t take any of it for granted.
When Atallah first arrived in Florida, she remembers feeling lost in her coursework. She struggled with imposter syndrome, doubting her own value in academia. The language barrier didn’t help either. But over time, mentors in the Department of Chemistry encouraged her to find self-assurance. Butler Professor Emeritus Ken Wagener helped instill confidence and cultivate a sense of belonging. “He helped me realize that all the things that make me different, make me special,” she said. UF gave Atallah more than an education — it offered a lasting change in perspective.
After graduation, Atallah developed a passion for helping others achieve the same sense of empowerment. She entered the research realm as a polymer scientist but quickly decided she wanted to direct her energy toward service to society. In her current role as product and social sustainability manager for Chevron Phillips Chemical (CPChem), Atallah leads the social responsibility focus area of their corporate sustainability which includes social impact, and human rights. As a certified coach and mentor, she also helps young girls and women in STEM gain their own self-confidence.
Atallah’s transformative experience at UF inspired her to give back. She established an endowment this year that recognizes students who lead community service initiatives. Her efforts have been fueled by CPChem, which matches giving efforts dollar for dollar. Atallah hopes the partnership will be a longstanding way to encourage the welcoming culture she found at UF. It’s also a win-win for the industry, as the corporation helps build a quality workforce for the future.
“When you expand someone’s access to education, it gives them the agency to change their lives and the lives of others,” she said.
“The greatest legacy you can leave behind is to give people education.”
YOUR SUPPORT CHANGES STUDENTS’ LIVES. LEARN HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN IMPACT.
Contact alumni@clas.ufl.edu or visit clas.ufl.edu/give.
