Sondra is a seasoned professional with more than 20 years experience with non-profit, federal, and military organizations. In early 2014, Ms. Lancaster joined the Institute for Broadening Participation (IBP) as a Program Director, where she works to increase diversity in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) workforce. Specifically, she manages minority student participation in NASA internship, fellowship, and scholarship programs. Prior to IBP, Ms. Lancaster worked with the UNCF Special Programs Corporation (UNCFSP) for more than a decade, where she developed, implemented, and administered workforce development projects for underrepresented/underserved populations in STEM; federal partners include NASA, Dept. of Education (DoED), Dept. of Energy (DOE), U.S. Army, and the Office of Minority Health (OMH).

From 2001-2003, Ms. Lancaster was a Manager with Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS), a contract organization with the U.S. Marine Corps at Camp Pendleton, CA.  In this capacity, she was responsible for the operation and management of a community center facility where she also facilitated a series of family advocacy programs for more than 1,400 military family members. She has received training in Executive Management, Project Management and Leadership Skills and holds a Bachelor’s of Arts degree from the University of Maryland University College. Overall, Ms. Lancaster fosters a fundamental commitment to ensuring access to information and opportunities that empower individuals both professionally and personally. She believes that education (formal and informal) coupled with a strategic plan of action and concerted effort is the building blocks to success.