Science Leadership Fellows 2024-26 Cohort
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Sarmistha Ghosh, with a Masters of Science in Biochemistry, is an accomplished Biology teacher at Charlotte Mecklenburg schools. She serves as a Vertical Alignment Liaison, contributing to curriculum development. She is a Science Leader for CMS Science Teaching and Learning. Sarmistha conducted research on the Comparative Micromorphology of Grass Leaves at Iowa University. as part of the RET program. A 2023-2024 NC Energy Literacy Fellow, she also presents at various STEM conferences. Her commitment to professional development is evident in her role in CMS training for science teachers. She is a dedicated advocate for energy literacy and environmental awareness. Her multifaceted contributions highlight her commitment to advancing science education as she strives to contribute positively to teaching, research, and leadership, hoping to make a meaningful impact on students, colleagues, and the community. |
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Lindsey Stalls is the STEM Coordinator at Eastern Elementary School in Greenville, North Carolina. She attended the University of North Carolina Wilmington, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education with a concentration and minor in psychology. Lindsey enjoys traveling in her personal and professional life. When not teaching, she enjoys spending time with her husband and children, baking, being outdoors, and reading. |
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| Milton Lima is a passionate educator dedicated to fostering a love for STEM and project-based learning. Currently teaching 6th-8th grade science and leading STEM initiatives at STEM Early High School in Vance County, Milton's commitment to education extends far beyond the classroom. His pursuit of knowledge has led him to diverse educational experiences, including participation in prestigious programs like the Green Boot Camp for Sustainability in San Diego, Honeywell Space Academy for Educators in Huntsville, and the United States Set Sail Naval STEM Academy for Educators in Annapolis. As a Brazilian teacher in the US, Milton shares his expertise by conducting workshops on implementing multidisciplinary STEM projects in Brazil. During summers, Milton devotes his time to teaching English through collaborative STEM activities for K-12 migrant students in Vance County. With a robust academic background encompassing a BSc in Biology and Biochemistry from the University of Campinas, Brazil, an MSc in STEM Education from the American College of Education, and ongoing studies for an EdD in Curriculum and Instruction in Science Education from Indiana University – Bloomington. His hobbies also include traveling, playing chess, and cherishing moments with his family. |
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My name is Susan Miller-Hendrix, and I currently serve as the Science Supervisor at the Public Schools of Robeson County. My journey in education has been marked by a profound commitment to science and STEM education. Before assuming my role as the Science Supervisor, I have worked as a middle school and high school science teacher, shaping the academic experiences of countless students. I have worked to develop a robust STEM program within the Public Schools of Robeson County and have written multiple grants to establish and enhance robotic programs spanning grades K-12. I was also a Kenan Fellow in 2021working on asset mapping for STEM SENC. I have an unwavering passion for science and STEM, and envision a future where students in Robeson County are not only proficient in these fields but are inspired and excited about their potential. One of my greatest contributions has been to create a mobile STEAM Classroom with the help of district support and the Burroughs Wellcome Fund that travels across the district providing STEM lessons for teachers, students, community events, and parent nights. |
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| Nancy Cattrell, Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) Director, Apex Friendship High School, Wake County Public School System in North Carolina. Nancy Cattrell brings over 15 years of experience in science education to her role at Apex Friendship High School where she serves as the director of the Women in Science and Engineering program. Here she also leads the forensic science course, acts as mentor teacher, and advises the local chapter of the Science National Honor Society. Nancy’s educational experience has largely focused on underrepresented groups in STEM, with emphasis on the inclusion of young women. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business Management and Animal Science from North Carolina State University and a Masters of Education in Science Education from East Carolina University. In her spare time, Nancy is committed to supporting public education to ensure all students receive the necessary support to have fulfilling lives after high school. She also enjoys sewing, cosplay, and playing with her 6-year-old daughter. |  |
| Amanda Robin is an experienced educator from Clayton, North Carolina. She holds a degree in elementary education from East Carolina University and a Masters in Executive Leadership and School Administration from Gardner Webb University. Over her 15-year teaching career, Amanda has taught in various locations across the United States due to her husband's military service. Amanda has made significant contributions to STEM and STEAM education. In San Diego, California, she launched a K-8 STEM program to inspire students' interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. She also established a Pre-K-5th STEAM program in her hometown, integrating arts into the curriculum. Outside of the classroom, Amanda collaborated with Wildlife and Fisheries in Louisiana on coastal wetlands restoration efforts. She educated students on the impact of humans on the Louisiana Coast and worked as a science mentor and 5th-grade teacher. Currently, Amanda is the K-5 Science lead and MTSS coach at Micro Elementary School. In her free time, she enjoys running and spending time with her husband and their three German Shepherds. |
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| My name is Beverly Goode-Thompson. I teach Honors Biology and Honors Earth/Environmental at the Early/Middle College at GTCC-Greensboro. I graduated from Johnson C. Smith University with a Bachelors of Science in General Science. I have a Master's Degree in Health Services Administration from Strayer University, an Academically Intellectually Gifted add-on licensure from Duke University, and am currently pursuing an Educational Doctorate in Educational Leadership at the University of North Carolina Greensboro. My husband and my four children are my biggest supporters as I continue to explore avenues to enhance my love for science. My motto is "All it takes is one!" My goal is to spark curiosity and ignite passion for lifelong learning! |
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My name is Daniel Otto, and I am a 5th grade science teacher at Irwin Academic Center in the Charlotte Mecklenburg School district. I was born and raised in New York, about sixty miles north of New York City. I earned my bachelor’s degree in science with a concentration in elementary education from Mount Saint Mary College. In 2016 I moved to North Carolina and began teaching in Charlotte. In 2023, I was honored to be named a STEM Superstar. I am currently the head coach of Irwin’s Science Olympiad team. I am also working on my master’s degree in educational administration at Gardner Webb University. When I am not at school I enjoy sports, traveling, and hanging out with my rescue dog, Bailey. |
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Jessica Burch is originally from New York where she earned her Bachelor's degree in Chemistry and Education from Elmira College. She moved to the Swansboro area in 2010 and has been teaching in the district since then. In 2021 she became a Nationally Board Certified Teacher in Chemistry and is currently working on her Masters Degree in Science Education from East Carolina University. Most Recently Jessica has had her first experience in presenting at the North Carolina Science Teacher Conference, where her and a colleague presented on bringing gaming to the classroom. Jessica's passion is to bring her students as many opportunities as she can both in the classroom and extracurricular! Jessica also enjoys dancing and can be found teaching dance at Jessica's Dance Academy. During her free time she enjoys spending time with her husband and 2 kids dancing, camping and exploring! |
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| Jennifer Griffin is a high school science teacher and assistant volleyball coach for Swansboro High School in Swansboro, North Carolina. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and a Master of Arts in Teaching from East Carolina University. In her science classroom she uses an instructional pedagogy called "Modeling". Modeling Instruction is a method of teaching in which students construct their own model of the physical world. Modeling is a student-centered process that allows students to create and manipulate concepts or ideas based on their own exploration. Jennifer is also a Biology Modeling Instructor for the American Modeling Teacher Association (AMTA) and for the NC Science House. She has presented at the North Carolina Science Teachers Association, National Science Teachers Association, and the North Carolina Technology in Education Society Conferences. She grades AP Biology assessments for College Board. She enjoys spending her free time gardening, thrifting, and boating with her husband Michael and 7-year-old son Eli. |
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| My name is Caroline Brickhouse and I am a K-5 STEM Specialist at Lyons Farm Elementary School in Durham Public Schools. I have a BA in elementary education and a Master's in science education both from UNC-Chapel Hill. I am in my 12th year of teaching and prior to becoming an elementary STEM specialist, I spent 10 years teaching middle school science. I have also worked in the private sector for 5 years as a science curriculum specialist for an assessment company. In 2021, I earned the honor of representing Durham Public Schools as Teacher of the Year. |  |
| Whitney Masterson is an 8th grade science teacher at Mills Park Middle School in Cary. A North Carolina native, she has lived across the state from the mountains to the sea, and settled in the Piedmont when she attended the College of Physical and Applied Science at NC State University where she received a B.A. in Chemistry and B.S. in Science Education.Whitney has taught science within the Wake County Public School System for the last 16 years at both middle and high school levels. As an educator, Whitney works collaboratively with her colleagues to create culturally relevant lessons that engage students into a love of learning. She brings a deep knowledge and understanding of scientific concepts and principles that she has developed through real-world experiences and professional development. She fosters curiosity and exploration in her classroom through hands-on applications and project-based learning. Whitney is a National Board Certified Teacher and a Kenan Fellow Alumni. She has worked with WakeMed Hospital to develop curriculum for teacher to use across the state. She serves as a mentor to both new teachers and teachers-in-training from local universities, and as an advisor for multiple student organizations that encourage leadership development and extended learning opportunities. In her free time, Whitney enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, taking care of her many plants, and reading. |
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| 2024 marks Titania Nix's 13th year as an Educator. I am currently the K-5 STEM Teacher at Oakview Elementary School in High Point, NC. I am also a Robotics Instructor and an award winning Robotics Coach of the Flying Robo Puggles at the Greensboro Science Center. I am a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, a 2023 S.E.E.D. Fellow (STEM Educators for Equity and Diversity), and a participant in the RTI STEM Network. I earned a Bachelors of Arts and a Masters of Science from North Carolina A&T State University in Political Science and Adult Education respectively. Most recently in 2020 I graduated from the Prepare Program at High Point University with a Masters of Arts in Teaching Elementary Education. |  |
| Justin Ingram is a 3rd generation educator from Greensboro, NC. He currently serves as a Teaching and Learning Specialist supporting high school science teachers in Johnston County, NC. Prior to taking this role, Justin spent 12 years teaching science in middle and high school in traditional public schools, charter schools and an International School in Quito, Ecuador. Justin has a passion for student-centered education with a focus on project-based learning. Justin graduated from UNC Wilmington where he majored in Psychology with a minor in Biology and Chemistry. Upon graduation, he joined Teach For America as a Corps Member in Charlotte, NC. Through this program, he realized his passion for education. He later earned his Master's in Education from Johns Hopkins University, where he is now on staff as a Capstone Coach, supporting graduate candidates in developing a portfolio documenting their teaching practice. In addition to supporting teachers in his Specialist and Coach roles, he shares his practice with others by presenting at the North Carolina Science Teachers Association conference. Justin also serves as a co-facilitator of the Math and Science District Leaders Network hosted by RTI. Outside of education, Justin enjoys traveling, playing board games, and spending time with friends and his fiancée. He has a dog and a cat, and also keeps bees! |
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