Amy Kulesza

As the Assistant Director of Education Research and Development in the Center for Life Sciences Education, Amy Kulesza has a strong background in DBER and SoTL, in addition to research methodology, evaluation, and assessment. Further, her work in promoting excellence in teaching with Biology instructors aligns with the goals of the Drake Institute at the University level. Currently, she is the instructor of record for Biology 5001, the TA professional development course. She also works closely with contract instructors to set teaching goals and help them to choose professional development activities that meet those goals.

The programming provided by the Drake Institute, such as the teaching endorsements, SoTL cohorts, and IR opportunities, are great opportunities for more veteran instructors to grow in their teaching in significant ways. As a Drake Institute Senior Affiliate, she envisions more biology instructors participating in these activities. This might occur through a biology-specific SoTL or IR group, or by giving instructors the opportunity to meet other STEM instructors across the university through a STEM-specific group.