After earning her B.A.S. in Biology and Music at Stanford University, Kate worked with Teach For America for three years as a middle school science teacher in Houston, Texas. Kate’s passion for science and teaching led her to Florida State University to pursue her Ph.D. At FSU, Kate assisted in developing the Biology 2011 Laboratory, which incorporates inquiry-based learning methods. While at FSU Kate also held leadership positions in teaching and diversity & inclusion initiatives at the department and university level. Her professional goal is to develop teaching methods and programs that support first generation college students in their transition to undergraduate coursework. She is particularly interested in promoting equitable teaching practices that improve student retention and provide students with authentic science experiences. She is currently an Instructional Assistant Professor at Chapman University where she directs the Biology 205 laboratory and teaches classes in Ecology & Evolution.