After spending nearly 20 years in marine science and science education, Stacey Rafalowski has invested a career in improving the way learning happens for young scientists and environmentalists. Beginning her marine biology career studying the impact of deposit-feeding invertebrates on microbial communities, Stacey entered the classroom through an NSF Fellowship pairing researchers and public-school teachers. Working to connect students to real-world marine and environmental research brought her to Earth Force, an environmental education NGO where she managed school-based, environmental service-learning programs in the SC Lowcountry and General Motors international community science program, GM GREEN. With a passion for ocean protection, developing ocean and environmental literacy as core education standards, and the power of young people to create a paradigm shift in the way people interact with our ocean planet, Stacey has directed the expansion of EarthEcho International’s suite of programs. In her role directing EarthEcho’s programs, she focuses on mobilizing the energy and innovation of young people. Stacey has spearheaded the creation of EarthEcho’s signature adventure learning and teacher development programs while expanding the integration of youth leadership in all areas of EarthEcho’s operations. Stacey continues to be active in the Charleston, SC community where she began her career as a marine biologist and ocean educator. She serves as a mentor for graduate and undergraduate marine science students, is the proud leader of local Girl Scout troop, and a fervent coconspirator for racial, social, and environmental justice. | |
Elizabeth Joyner joined the Science Directorate Education Team in 2017 to work with the My NASA Data program as an education specialist. As a highly qualified teacher, Elizabeth taught for over 10 years in both public and private school, as well as worked in informal settings such as Virginia Space Grant Consortium, SC Space Grant, SC Sea Grant Consortium, NOAA/NSF's Center for Ocean Sciences Education Excellence, and the American Geosciences Institute. Elizabeth received bachelor’s degrees in Environmental Geology and Religious Studies, as well as earned a M.A.T. in Elementary and Middle School Science, and a M.Ed. in Science and Mathematics. | |
Dr. Samuel García Jr. serves as a NASA Educator Professional Development Specialist, Assistant Professor of Practice for the LBJ Institute for Education and Research. Dr. García helps facilitate professional development to both formal and informal STEM educators utilizing NASA resources with a specific focus on Culturally Responsive Pedagogy. He also works with faculty serving in Minority Serving Institutions in developing STEM educational tools and resources for teachers to implement in their classrooms. Dr. García’s research agenda is geared towards community and educational change by creating healthy, equitable, and culturally responsive learning environments for traditionally underserved populations. Dr. García. earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Texas Río Grande Valley, formerly University of Texas Pan American and holds a doctorate degree in School Improvement from Texas State University. | |
