My love for science began at the Fort Worth Science and History Museum. As a child growing up in a small town, it was such a treat to drive to the big city and spend an afternoon there. Even as hundreds of other visitors swirled around, I remember thinking that it was my own special place, with exhibits designed just for me.
That feeling of wonder and curiosity led me to pursue a B.S. in Engineering Science from Trinity University. But as I began my engineering career, something felt missing. When I began volunteering at the Austin Children’s Museum, I discovered what it was, and I realized what I was truly passionate about. I went back to graduate school and earned my M.S. in Science Education from the University of Texas with a focus on learning in out-of-school environments.
I have now worked in the field of informal science education for over a decade, and that feeling of having found my passion is still as strong as when I first began. I thrive on collaboration, and am actively involved in the field. I am proud to have been named President Elect of the Informal Science Education Association of Texas. In every aspect of my work, I seek to increase participation of underserved groups in STEM.
I reside in Austin, but travel often to wonderful informal education sites around the nation. I guess I am still that kid who would rather spend an afternoon in a science museum than anywhere else.