Dr. Renae Ferguson-Bufford is of a character that presents itself as vividly dynamic and evolving. Born on the island of New Providence, Bahamas, Dr. Ferguson-Bufford’s acclamations speak clearly to this statement.  These include a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Chemistry and a Master of Arts in Science Education with Biological Research (Clark Atlanta University) and the Doctor of Philosophy designation in Science and Education (Georgia State University). Having extensive experience in the natural sciences, science assessments and standards development fields Dr. Bufford has received several science leadership awards.

     Dr. Bufford began a career as a science educator at Government High School, teaching biology, chemistry and general science. Continuing service outside of The Bahamas, Dr. Bufford held posts as a professor at Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta University, a science educator and department chair in the Fulton County School System, a science curriculum coordinator for twenty-five schools in the Chicago, Illinois public school system and a Partner Relations Representative and Senior Science Curriculum/Standards Developer for Northwest Evaluation Association in Portland, Oregon. During a twenty year span in the educational systems, Dr. Bufford’s experiences have been augmented with positions held in various laboratories as a specialist in cell-biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, molecular genetics and microbiology laboratory research scientist and lab manager.

     Since transitioning from the educational field Dr. Bufford has been trained internationally for the role of Director of national standards and metrology bodies as well as in management of various quality management systems. In the capacity as Acting Director of the Bahamas Bureau of Standards and Quality (BBSQ), Dr. Bufford managed the operations and affairs of the Bureau, strategically focusing on the foundational requirements for building a national quality infrastructure. During this period Dr. Bufford began to secure project funding from various international entities for laboratory equipment and capacity building and training for incoming staff members.  

     Dr. Bufford, now Director of the BBSQ, represents the Bureau at CARICOM Regional Organisation of Standards and Quality (CROSQ) Council Meetings, general assemblies, workshops and conferences locally, regionally and internationally. Dr. Bufford’s role as the Director of the BBSQ demonstrates her abilities to balance and focus whether the task is arduous or the end-goal is at great distance. Being a family woman and educator, her desire to foster growth is only trumped by her expectation for purposeful action. A believer in being self-driven, she does not ask that one be passionate about developing the nation but exemplifies that it should be a basic trait for us all.  These qualities are shown by her willingness to return to the country to serve in this role and applying herself with fervency and tenacity.