Interview: Evlyn Márcia Leão de Moraes Novo

Abstract

Researcher, Professor, Mother, Wife, but, above all, a Woman. This is Evlyn Márcia Leão de Moraes Novo — or simply Evlyn Novo, as she is known. A geographer who witnessed the creation and structuring of the National Institute for Space Research (INPE), she was a pioneer in the applications of remote sensing across various fields of science. In this interview, she shares a bit of her personal and professional journey, shedding light on partnerships, fears, conflicts, anxieties, and prejudices faced along the way. Prof. Evlyn is the living history of INPE: she has supervised over 77 students and published more than 150 journal articles (in addition to books, chapters, conference papers, and abstracts), making a fundamental contribution to the training of new professionals who are now spread across universities, research centers, NGOs, and the private sector. Recently retired, she will remain ever-present in remote sensing classes at universities in Brazil and around the world through her published works. This interview was conducted by faculty members of the Geography program at the Federal University of Alfenas (UNIFAL-MG), with the participation of guests from INPE (UNIFAL-MG alumni), on the occasion of the program's 8th Scientific Conference. The goal is to present to society an Evlyn beyond Novo — someone who triumphed with grit and dedication! For geographical science, Prof. Evlyn Novo is and will continue to be a benchmark. We thank her for her kindness in accepting the invitation for this interview and sharing her stories and reflections with us. You are always welcome back to Alfenas/MG for a cup of coffee and pão de queijo. Warm regards.