Don Pinkerton is the founder and president of LynnLab, housed at The Brickyard Collaborative in Lynn, Massachusetts. With an extensive background in life sciences, Don has spent much of his career sharing his love for science with his community. For several years, he was a teacher at Revere High School and currently serves as the Director of Education and Outreach at Regon Institute. At Ragon Institute, he leads programs that expand access to STEM education for underserved communities.
Don engages local students in an exciting lab project.
To Don, life sciences encompass all things related to the living world, such as biology, biotechnology, and environmental science. Don’s passion for science began in childhood while exploring beaches and woods, fascinated by the natural world.
What is LynnLab?
Many communities, like Lynn, MA, have struggled to provide equitable access to hands-on STEM education. LynnLab emerged from the idea that “science should be a local community resource.” LynnLab is a community-based life sciences lab and education nonprofit, similar to budding
Don is featured with another group of students getting into the labs. Check out that snazzy protective eye gear!
grassroots science-based community initiatives across the country, such as Baltimore Underground Science Space and BOSLab.
Don founded LynnLab to “democratize science by making hands-on, high-quality STEM learning accessible to the community– particularly to young people.” LynnLab provides resources for students to engage in biology, biotech, and environmental science labs. With a particular dedication to exposing youth to the possibilities of STEM, LynnLab is expanding programming to include opportunities for adults and anyone else who is intrigued by science.
Collaborating with Thinkubator Media
LynnLab partnered with Thinkubator Media vicariously through BioConnects New England. Don cited the experience as “invaluable.” The team provided Don with strategic guidance, creative support, and a sounding board to support LynnLab’s continuous growth.
Next Steps with LynnLab
Driven to create an even greater community impact, programming is rapidly evolving at LynnLab. New initiatives at LynnLab include:
Summer and fall STEM programs for teens
Science workshops with an artistic twist
More adult programming
Continued community-based life science education
For more information, visit www.lynnlab.org or follow LynnLab on Instagram and Facebook. It has been a pleasure collaborating with you, Don!
A Taste of Organic Farming with Rolling Hills
Steph is smiling with some of Rolling Hills' famous carrots, freshly harvested!
Thinkubator Media had the opportunity to see into the world of organic farming with Stephanie Spock of Rolling Hills Farm in New Jersey. From providing local farmers’ markets, retailers, and restaurants, to planting and picking every carefully chosen crop, the Rolling Hills family tends to every level of operation with their bare hands. This labor of love has become a tight-knit, honest, and passionate community, spearheaded by Stephanie and her husband, John, along with their daughter, sweet little Nellie. From Earth to table, we got a chance to understand how and why they do it all. Stephanie beautifully illustrated the shared passion and dedication of the Rolling Hills family and team.
A Farmland Love Story
“At Rolling Hills Farm, organic farming isn’t just a method — it’s a mission. Our journey began with a deep desire to grow food that we’d be proud to feed our own family — clean, nutrient-rich, vibrant food grown in living soil. Over time, that desire grew into a calling to share this food with our wider community. From there, we've been able to help transform people's thinking about farming, health, and sustainability.
"I (Stephanie) majored in Environmental Science and Geology, where I realized one of the most tangible solutions to environmental issues was to change how our food was grown. After my first farming internship in Alaska, I fell in love with the land. John majored in philosophy and political science. After college, he traveled to Europe to live on farms. When he came home, he got his first farm job at Double Brook Farm, where we met.
"A mix of grit and hard work, a love of good food, and a shared vision for a healthier world inspired us on our journey as a family of farmers. Our farmers’ resilience, entrepreneurial drive, and compassionate hearts are the pillars of our growing farm and brand. Our growth has been incremental and intentional. We've invested in equipment that improves post-harvest processing, built strong local markets through CSA programs, and continue expanding into new territories like NY, NJ, and PA. Each season teaches us something new, and we are devoted students."
What Does it Take to be an Organic Farmer?
"Becoming an organic farmer took years of learning — from hands-on apprenticeships to building the systems and infrastructure that now support our diversified operation. We didn’t inherit a perfect setup; we built it.
The team that started it all; the power couple Stephanie and John Squiccaiano
There’s nothing more rewarding than walking the fields just before harvest and seeing the results of months of mindful labor — rows of glowing heirloom tomatoes, crisp specialty greens, or peppers among the many other crops we grow. It's knowing that what we grow will nourish families and support regional food security.
"But the challenges are real. Organic farming demands a deeper understanding of ecology, plant biology, and soil health. There's no chemical shortcut when weeds take over, pests get ambitious, or a late frost surprises us. The work is physical, relentless, and often weather-dependent. But those hard days also make the wins that much sweeter.”
Although they all serve a greater purpose, not all organic farms are created equal.
“We go beyond USDA standards. At Rolling Hills, we prioritize regenerative practices that restore soil fertility, biodiversity, and water cycles. Our produce doesn’t just meet the organic label — it’s vibrant, flavorful, and nutrient-dense.
"What sets us apart is our connection to the communities we serve and our transparency. We're hands-on with every aspect — from seed to harvest, and packing CSA shares to selling at market. Our products are 100% traceable, our practices are rooted in care, and our mission is always growing.
"Currently, we are expanding our crops and winter growing each year. This winter, we are leading research on crops that can be grown throughout our region for the winter."
John tending to some tasty broccoli.
Support Local Farmers Today!
Farming is nothing short of knitty-gritty. Long hours guided by natural rhythms are accented by quiet nights surrounded by loved ones and happily growing produce. Having experienced the produce myself, we get a taste of that love from those rolling hills in every bite. You can find more cute family photos and vibrant pictures of produce on their Instagram page @rolling_hills_farm. You can also check out their website and join their newsletter for tasty recipes highlighting their seasonal goods.
From the team at Thinkubator Media, we want to thank the Rolling Hills team, with honorable mention to all of our farmers and their families who sustain our nation. You can support your local farmers by attending local farmers’ markets in your area or by visiting local farms. Some mobile programs can deliver fresh produce to people with limited transportation, but options may vary depending on location.
With massive budget cuts directly impacting many small, family-owned farms across the country, several organizations support and connect with farmers. Farm AID, OFRF, and SAFSF are just a few of the groups that continue to support our farmers.
We can make our nation stronger in mind, body, and spirit. Starting with where we get our food. Supporting local farmers supports us, and that is the true heart of the American way.
The Legacy of Black Women in STEM
From barbaric medical practices to outright plagiarism and theft, modern science carries a dark history. Modern science hasn’t always offered the most fair playing ground for women, people of color, or the disabled. Oftentimes they would either be tortured, stolen from, or ultimately abused in the name of innovation. The notion of race itself and the prejudices that come with it are based on the “science” of eugenics. However, science has also allowed us to have clean drinking water, life-saving medical interventions, and working electricity among so many other things. Despite this ever-present dichotomy in the science world, it is clear that to move forward as a society, we have to be willing to make those advancements together.
Mary Kenner along with an image of the sanitary napkins based on her designs. Image courtesy of Vocal Media.
Black women have made significant contributions to STEM throughout history. Unfortunately, many of these key players in the advancements of STEM have been overlooked due to systemic barriers based on prejudice and discrimination. With brighter hearts and more open minds, science has the power to present the evidence and solutions needed to face social issues head-on.
This Black History Month, we highlight both historical and modern pioneers who've made a way where there was none. We thank these women named and unnamed who have opened the door for advancements in STEM that benefit all people, regardless of race, class, or gender.
Historical Trailblazers
Though we can only list so many, we just want to take the time to honor all of the Black women, known and unknown, whose minds have contributed to science and technology.
Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, Christine Darden & Mary Jackson were pivotal members of NASA during the Apollo mission in 1969. Starting in the early 50s’ these women were a pivotal group of mathematicians, engineers, and leaders whose careful calculations made the success of the Apollo mission possible.
Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner received very little recognition for her monumental contribution to global menstrual care. With a patented design, Kenner engineered an improved menstrual pad, making menstrual more accessible, convenient, and sanitary.
Dr. Marie Maynard Daly was the first Black woman in the U.S. to earn a PhD in chemistry. Her research on hypertension and cardiovascular disease shaped modern medicine for the disorders.
Not only did these women brave the frontlines of social change in America, but they graced our nation with the expertise and efforts that have made this great nation possible.
Modern STEM Leaders Conquering Challenges
Dr. Ayana Howard is pictured with a super cute robot, courtesy of Silicon Valley Robotics.
Today, there is a long list of Black women who continue to carry the torch of their foremothers in the STEM world. Though the future may seem daunting at times, these women are continuing to boldly step forward with their ideas and solutions.
Dr. Ayana Howard is an expert in AI and robotics, advancing ethical tech and accessibility. Her work addresses the pros and cons of the rapidly advancing world of AI and robotics. Dr. Howard’s expertise helps to ensure a safer experience with AI and robots for all.
Alexis Williams is one of many of us who were affected by the police brutality events of the last decade. However, Alexis took matters into her own hands and created a web-based database that offers resources for allies, survivors, victims, and their families called Police Brutality Resources (PBR).
According to the National Science Foundation’s 2023 report, Black women and our marginalized counterparts still have a bit of distance to go before we achieve greater equity in the sciences.
Some of the greatest challenges of increasing representation in STEM include:
Lack of mentorship
Lack of exposure and opportunity
Bias in hiring
Limited leadership opportunities.
Alexis Williams, founder of Police Brutality Resources (PBR), courtesy of Pulse Spikes.
By improving representation and access to STEM opportunities, more people are getting a chance to see themselves as scientists. Though the task may seem daunting, we can achieve these goals.
Inspirational women like Dr. Howard and Alexis Williams took matters into their own hands by identifying significant problems and creating lasting solutions. We also are in a time when children are seeing a colorful array of people in a variety of professions; giving them a chance to consider astronomical possibilities for their futures. This early exposure can potentially encourage the younger generations to have a natural inclination towards STEM, given that it is truly a world of possibility on its own.
Despite the divisive adults that run things, children today are being raised in a world that is actively working toward honoring diversity for the gift and privilege that it is. A few years down the road, creating inclusive environments for all to thrive will be second nature.
Looking Ahead: A Communal Effort
By working together, we can ensure that all who are marginalized receive the opportunities, justice, and respect that they deserve. We must stay committed to amplifying each others’ voices and ensuring better opportunities; we will only be stronger for it.
