Teaching Since 2025 • Joined WTMA in 2025
Department(s)
Science
Education & Experience
- BS in Chemistry, University of Redlands
- PhD in Chemistry, Arizona State University
Courses Taught
Bio
With over 26 years of combined experience in scientific research and public service, including five years as a student intern at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) Space Physiology Laboratory and 21 years as a Regulatory Review Scientist at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), I bring a wealth of real-world scientific expertise and a deep commitment to education to my role as an AP Chemistry instructor. At NASA, I contributed to research exploring how human physiology adapts to spaceflight, deepening my appreciation for the critical role of chemistry in understanding complex biological systems. At the FDA, I was responsible for evaluating the safety of food-contact materials—such as food packaging, food processing equipment, and antimicrobial agents—and guiding industry stakeholders through complex regulatory processes. I led national outreach efforts to educate scientists, industry professionals, and the public on the intersection of chemistry, safety, and public health, and I’m excited to bring that same clarity, rigor, and passion into the classroom.
Throughout my career, I have remained deeply committed to science education. My passion in science education began during graduate school, where I served as a Teaching Assistant in General and Inorganic Chemistry. Those early teaching experiences sparked a lifelong dedication to helping students navigate—and thrive in—challenging scientific material. Today, I bring that dedication to high school learners preparing for college-level coursework through the AP Chemistry program.
In my online classroom, I aim to create a welcoming and intellectually engaging environment where students feel supported, motivated, and empowered. I use interactive teaching methods, real-world examples, and individualized feedback to ensure students not only master the AP curriculum, but develop a genuine curiosity and appreciation for chemistry. I understand the unique dynamics of virtual learning, having guided my own three children through online education, and I work closely with both students and parents to provide practical, empathetic support every step of the way.
My ultimate goal is to inspire students to not only master the material but to develop a lasting curiosity and appreciation for chemistry. I hope they carry that passion forward—through college, careers in science, and even into the next generation of learners who will shape our world.
Question & Answer
Q: What are some of the ways you’ve seen students benefit from online learning?
A:
One of the most powerful advantages of online learning is the ability it gives students to pursue academic excellence without being limited by age, grade level, or classroom constraints. For motivated learners, this flexibility is invaluable.
Through online platforms, students can go beyond the standard curriculum and engage deeply with subjects they love. In my own experience as both an educator and a parent, I have seen how online learning fosters intellectual curiosity, independence, and confidence. My children, for example, were able to challenge themselves with advanced coursework well before it would have been available in a traditional school setting. They connected with peers working at a similar academic level, developed lasting friendships, and found a true sense of belonging among like-minded learners.
This kind of environment does more than accelerate learning—it cultivates the habits of self-discipline, time management, and initiative that top universities look for in applicants. Online education also allowed my children to spend more time pursuing extracurricular interests and community involvement—further strengthening their college profiles.
For families and students striving for admission to selective universities, online learning can offer an exceptional, personalized academic experience—one that supports not just achievement, but a lifelong love of learning.
Q: What can students expect from your AP Chemistry course?
A:
Students in my AP Chemistry course can expect a rigorous, engaging, and highly supportive academic experience. This course is designed to mirror the pace and expectations of a first-year college chemistry class, with a strong emphasis on conceptual understanding, problem-solving, and real-world application.
My goal is not just to prepare students for the AP exam, but to help them think like chemists—to question, explore, and apply what they learn across disciplines. We emphasize analytical thinking, laboratory reasoning, and the ability to clearly communicate scientific ideas, all of which are critical skills for future STEM majors.
In a virtual setting, I make it a priority to foster an interactive and collaborative classroom culture. Students are encouraged to ask questions, engage in discussion, and take ownership of their learning. I also offer individualized feedback and support, because I believe every student—regardless of where they’re starting—should be challenged and encouraged to reach their full potential.
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