Intro by King Musa
"Yo, what it is? You know what it is. It's your man, King Musa! Welcome to The CheatSheet, the podcast where we decode success for creators, professors, and business owners. I'm your host, King Musa, and today we’re diving into the world of chemistry and higher education.
Our guest today is a leader shaping the future of scientific education and research—Dr. Odutayo Odunuga, Chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Stephen F. Austin State University. Let’s get into it!"
Getting to Know Dr. Odunuga
King Musa: "Dr. O, could you introduce yourself and tell us about your role at SFA?"
Dr. Odunuga: "Absolutely! I’m Dr. Odutayo Odunuga, but my students call me Dr. O. I’m the Chair and Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at SFA. I oversee the daily operations of the department, but I also run my own lab where I train both undergraduate and graduate students in research."
Background and Academic Journey
KM: "Where did you grow up, and what sparked your interest in chemistry?"
Dr. Odunuga: "I grew up in southwestern Nigeria. I earned my first and second degrees in chemistry and biochemistry there, and even lectured for four years. I later moved to South Africa to pursue another PhD, eventually completing postdoctoral work in the U.S. at UTMB in Galveston. In 2008, I joined SFA."
Passions Outside of Work
KM: "What do you enjoy doing outside of the lab?"
Dr. Odunuga: "I’m an avid reader, especially of history. I’m currently reading about the Yoruba people of Nigeria. I also engage in community outreach through my church and advise student clubs here at SFA."
Vision for the Department
KM: "What’s your vision for the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department at SFA?"
Dr. Odunuga: "I want the department to grow—not just in numbers but in how we train students. I want our graduates to be ready to compete globally. We’re partnering with industry to provide hands-on experience with state-of-the-art equipment, ensuring students are job-ready on day one."
Leadership and Career Growth
KM: "How did you transition from professor to Chair, and what was that journey like?"
Dr. Odunuga: "Honestly, leadership wasn’t part of my original plan. I just wanted to do good science. But when the opportunity arose, I stepped up. I started as Interim Chair four years ago and officially became Chair this past June."
Challenges in Leadership
KM: "What were some challenges you faced transitioning to Chair?"
Dr. Odunuga: "The hardest part was shifting from being a peer to overseeing colleagues. It takes maturity and self-assurance to manage that dynamic. As interim, you’re limited in what you can do, but I focused on progress, and eventually, I earned the role permanently."
Leadership Style
KM: "How would you describe your leadership style?"
Dr. Odunuga: "I believe in creating a supportive environment where people thrive. I cast a vision and allow my faculty to refine it with me. I keep an open-door policy because leadership is about collaboration, not having all the answers."
Exciting Initiatives and Developments
KM: "What exciting developments should students and faculty look forward to?"
Dr. Odunuga: "With SFA joining the UT system, we have more resources and opportunities. We’re expanding partnerships with industry, applying for grants, and increasing student scholarships. We’re also improving student spaces for study and socialization."
Advice for Students
KM: "What advice would you give students pursuing chemistry or biochemistry?"
Dr. Odunuga: "Engage in the process. Take advantage of opportunities and don’t fear failure. Chemistry and biochemistry are tough, but they’re not impossible. Persistence, confidence, and attitude matter. Success comes from staying committed, even after setbacks."
Outro by King Musa
"Dr. O, thank you for sharing your wisdom and experiences. Your passion for education and leadership is inspiring.
To our listeners—stay curious and keep pushing forward. Success in science, and in life, is all about dedication and growth. This is King Musa signing off—keep exploring, keep experimenting, and stay inspired. Peace!"
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