Outreach

“One that beareth a torch shadoweth oneself to give light to others.”

• Astronomy on Tap:
  • As a graduate student, I have been an active participant in Astronomy on Tap, a public outreach event where scientists give public-level talks at a local bar.
  • I have given talks titled:
    • “The Evolution of Astronomy: From Light to Gravitational Waves” in Lansing, MI
    • “Exploring the Lives and Deaths of Stars through Poetry.” in Lansing MI and Albuquerque, NM
• Saturday Science:
  • As part of the University of Tennessee’s University Assisted Community Schools program, myself and other volunteers performed hands-on science activities with students at Pond Gap Elementary, a local Title I elementary school in Knoxville, TN, for all 5 years of undergrad.
• Society of Physics Students:
  • For all five years of undergrad, I was heavily involved with the University of Tennessee (UTK) chapter of the Society of Physics Students.
  • This group was, and continues to be, dedicated to outreach. Activities included:
    • Monthly public science demonstrations in downtown Knoxville
    • Visits to schools and museums
    • Organization of regional conferences for undergraduates
    • Hosting events such as lunches with faculty
  • We were recognized by the national organization for our outreach efforts on multiple occasions.
  • One of our most popular events was a frozen pumpkin drop near Halloween!
• More Outreach!:
  • I have volunteered and continue to volunteer with many other organizations, often including local schools.
  • Developed lesson plans and co-led activities for a semester-long after-school science club at Annoor Academy in Knoxville.
  • At Inskip Elementary, a local community school in Knoxville, I helped lead an after-school LEGO robotics club.