WASHINGTON, D.C. — Myah Rather, a third-year NCAS-M doctoral candidate, has been awarded an Honorable Mention for Student Poster Presentation at the 2026 Annual Meeting of the American Meteorological Society (AMS). Her poster, Sensitivities of HAFS Cumulus Parameterizations for Hurricane Ian (2022), investigates how varying cumulus parameterization schemes within the Hurricane Analysis and Forecast System (HAFS) influence the modeling of one of the most destructive Atlantic hurricanes in recent memory.
For Rather, the recognition carries weight that extends well beyond the science. Early in her graduate studies, she experienced a defining moment of adversity: she froze during an oral presentation and walked away from the podium. Rather than allowing that experience to diminish her confidence, she chose to confront it — with the steady guidance of her advisor, Dr. Chiao, at her side.
“With Dr. Chiao on my side, helping me through that incident and continuously throughout my graduate school journey, I have grown a lot,” said Rather. “Since then, I have made it a priority to learn how to present my science and research in a way that allows me to feel confident in both my work and in what my voice is within this vast STEM world.”
Rather’s award-winning poster reflects that commitment to intentional, confident communication. Acutely aware that her audience often does not share her background — and that such environments can be isolating — she channeled that awareness into the design of her presentation itself. She built something visually engaging and accessible, incorporating original schematics to make complex physical science approachable for her audience while also anchoring her own delivery.
“My goal is to add schematics and create an easier understanding of the science while also allowing myself to present more comfortably and maintain a clear flow for my audience,” Rather explained. Her research has direct implications for public safety: improved understanding of how HAFS responds to different cumulus parameterization schemes advances the accuracy of hurricane track and intensity forecasts — information critical to emergency management and coastal communities.
Rather’s recognition at AMS underscores the enduring impact of the NCAS-M program in cultivating a diverse, resilient generation of atmospheric scientists. Her story is one of mentorship, perseverance, and the quiet power of finding one’s own voice in a field where that voice is still too rarely heard.
