Marquis Who's Who Millennium Magazine

72 MILLENNIUM D eborah J. Callender is a physical scientist with much experience in her field. Currently working for the Naval Oceanographic Office at the Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, she has proven that she has the drive and dedication to flourish. Before embarking on her scientific endeavors, she began her professional career as an administrative clerk and personal financial records clerk from 1974 to 1985. Afterward, she served for 12 years as a naval intelligence officer for the United States Navy and spearheaded many projects as a project manager. In 2004, she began working as the director of spatial information management services for Pearl River County and one year later became a geographic information systems program manager. Before settling at the Naval Oceanographic Office, she also served one year as an associate software engineer at General Dynamics Information Technology. Though she has done exceedingly well for herself, she has faced many obstacles, the greatest of which has been being taken seriously as a woman with a mind and voice. Ms. Callender earned a Bachelor of Arts in English at the University of Utah, a Master of Business in engineering technology at the University of Redlands, a Master of Arts in computer visualization, and a Master of Science in science technology, 3-D visualization and animation from the University of Southern Mississippi. She has given back to her community through her volunteer efforts as a studio staff member and dance instructor’s assistant for nine years. She was also a judge of the National SeaPerch Challenge in 2014 and has served as a regional competition moderator for the National Ocean Sciences Bowl since 2008. Looking to the future, her goal is to develop a multimillion-dollar specialized contract for her division. She would also like to return to school to pursue an education in marine biology. Ms. Callender wants to be remembered as a friendly, sociable and supportive person who made an impact on many people. Deborah J. Callender Physical Scientist Naval Oceanographic Office Carriere, MS