How did you connect with Beyond Benign?
I first learned about Beyond Benign at ChemEd 2009. In the spring of 2010 I attended a New England Association of Chemistry Teachers (NEACT) sectional meeting held at Beyond Benign, and I followed that up by attending a Beyond Benign 3-day summer workshop.

What first drew you into teaching and science education?
Prior to teaching high school I worked as a pharmacist. I came to realize that the most enjoyable and fulfilling part of that job was working with and educating patients, so I decided to change careers. Chemistry had been my favorite subject in high school, and with my extensive medicinal chemistry background the switch to chemistry education was a natural fit.

What excites you most about teaching green chemistry?
Young people are drawn towards learning about their environment and societal issues. They are passionate about helping others and preserving the environment and wildlife habitats. Teaching students the principles of green chemistry, which then allows them to view not only chemistry but all of their sciences through the lens of sustainability, is exciting and fulfilling. It helps students to understand the regular chemistry curriculum through a context of applicability.