Design Like a J.E.D.I.: You Belong Here—How Courage, Representation, and Leadership Create Space for Us All
Dr. Shamika Kelley, director, NOPD Crime Lab
Sometimes the greatest challenge is simply believing you belong.
This month’s JEDI column shares the story of a forensic science director, Dr. Shamika Kelley, who once wondered if she truly fit in—walking into rooms where no one else looked like her, grew up like her, and questioning whether her voice mattered.
Her journey resonates deeply with my own. I know what it feels like to step into spaces where you don't immediately see a reflection of yourself—where you quietly wonder if you’re enough, if you have earned your seat at the table. Like Dr. Kelley, I learned that belonging isn’t given; it’s built through courage, hard work, and the quiet decision to show up anyway, is how you earn a spot at the table.
We share this truth: that no matter how different we may feel, our voices carry strength, and our presence opens the doors a little wider for those to walk through.
This is a story about resilience, leadership, and the lasting impact we create when we choose to believe not only in our own worth—but in the power of lifting others along the way. Every step forward is an opportunity to uplift those around us, to share our successes, and to inspire collective growth. By supporting each other, we create a ripple effect of positivity and empowerment that transcends individual achievements. Together, we rise higher, fostering a community where everyone thrives.
The spark that lit the path
For many, a career begins with a plan. For others, it starts with a spark.
Growing up, forensic science first captured Dr. Kelley's imagination while watching Forensic Files alongside her father. What began as an after-school ritual turned into a genuine interest: how science could uncover the truth, bringing clarity and justice to mysteries that might otherwise remain unsolved. But it wasn’t until a pivotal moment—when Dr. Kelley's twelfth-grade teacher transformed their classroom into a mock crime scene—that she realized this could be more than a TV show; it could be a life’s work.
Determined to follow her calling, Dr. Kelley pursued a bachelor of science in biological sciences at Louisiana State University, graduating in 2007. From there, she moved to Texas to earn her master’s degree in forensic and investigative genetics. After completing her studies, she joined the Houston Police Department's crime lab, steadily building her expertise and leadership skills.
Facing the silent doubt
Yet even while Dr. Kelley's career path seemed clear, the internal journey was more complicated. She openly shares how challenging it was to navigate spaces where few looked like her, where the absence of representation made her wonder if she truly belonged.
"Imposter syndrome crept in," Dr. Kelley reflects. "I would walk into a room and feel like maybe I wasn’t supposed to be there—just because I looked different from almost everyone else around me."
But through perseverance, the support of her mentors, family, and faith, Dr. Kelley found her footing—and her voice. Today, she offers advice rooted deeply in lived experience:
She would tell her mentees, "You belong in every room you’ve been invited into. Your voice matters. You don’t need anyone else to validate your presence—know your worth and know that your perspective is needed."
It’s a message of encouragement for all women, those from diverse backgrounds, and anyone who has ever doubted their place in spaces where they may be the first one—or the only one.
A new calling: answering New Orleans
After many years in Houston, a new opportunity called.
When Dr. Kelley learned that New Orleans' forensic lab had been without a director since 2018, she felt compelled to step forward. After visiting the NOLA crime lab in person, the decision was sealed: this was where she was meant to lead. Since arriving in 2023, Dr. Kelley focused on more than rebuilding lab capacity. Her leadership philosophy centers on integrity, transparency, accountability—and, most importantly, empathy.
She strives to create an environment where people are seen, not as professionals, but as whole individuals, recognizing the emotional weight that forensic work often carries.
Building a culture of care and excellence
This holistic approach is already transforming the lab. Dr. Kelley has led initiatives to support wellness, including installing a dedicated mothers’ room, promoting mental health activities like yoga and wellness walk Wednesdays, and revamping the internship program to offer students real-world experience and mentorship opportunities.
Under her guidance, the lab has grown significantly—expanding its staff from when she started at 30 people to nearly 60 employees in less than two years, with plans for even greater growth in the near future ahead.
To support this rapid expansion—and to accommodate the introduction of in-house DNA analysis—the physical layout of the lab was thoughtfully reconfigured with direct input from end users. Dr. Kelley and her team recognized that the individuals working in the space every day were best positioned to identify inefficiencies and offer insights into how the lab could better support both technical and collaborative work. Staff provided feedback through informal walkthroughs and discussions, which directly informed the spatial updates.
The reimagined layout includes dedicated zones for sensitive processes such as DNA extraction and amplification, designed to reduce contamination risk and improve workflow efficiency. Additional bench space, flexible workstations, and reconfigured equipment placement now reflect the evolving needs of a modern forensic laboratory.
Importantly, the space was also adapted with inclusivity in mind. Adjustable-height benches, clearer circulation paths, and improved access to shared resources help support a wider range of working styles and physical needs. These changes reflect Dr. Kelley’s broader commitment to cultivating not just operational excellence, but a lab culture rooted in empathy, equity, and respect—where all staff feel supported and empowered to do their best work.
A historic moment for New Orleans
The work being done is historic. Nearly two decades after Hurricane Katrina ravaged the city of New Orleans, the forensic lab is bringing DNA analysis back in-house, purchasing state-of-the-art equipment that few labs nationwide possess. This achievement is more than just operational; it symbolizes resilience, restoration, and a renewal to the commitment of justice for the citizens of New Orleans, who call this remarkable city home.
Leading with heart: lifting others as she ascends
Throughout her journey, Dr. Kelley has been shaped by mentors who believed in her even when she doubted herself—and today, she is determined to “pay it forward.”
When asked about her long-term goals, her answer is heartfelt and humble: "I just want to leave this place better than I found it. I want to elevate the work we do and the people who do it—to lead with courage and compassion, and to help others see their own potential, even when they doubt it themselves."
Dr. Kelley's leadership reminds us all that forensic science—and the justice system it supports—is ultimately about the people. It's about ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, identity or race, has a seat at the table, and feels empowered to sing with their own voice.
A legacy of belonging
Dr. Kelley's story—and the stories of so many of us who have walked this path—are a powerful reminder:
That true leadership is about more than just achieving professional milestones; it's about creating spaces where everyone feels they belong. Her story illustrates that courage, representation, and unwavering commitment can break down barriers and pave the way for others. As we reflect on her achievements and the impact of her work, we are reminded that each of us has the power to lift others as we climb. By embracing our unique voices and supporting those around us, we contribute to a more inclusive and just world. You belong here, and together, we can create a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
You may be the first. You may be the only. But you are never alone. You belong.
All opinions expressed in Design Like a J.E.D.I. with Jinhee Lee are exclusive to the author and are not reflective of Lab Design News.
