BIOGRAPHY

I obtained my Ph.D. in Biological Sciences with an emphasis in Neurophysiology from the University of Missouri-Columbia (MU). My thesis work on neural plasticity of the central nerve pathways that regulate feeding behavior in Aplysia californica produced one co-author publication and four first author publications. These studies involved examining functional neural regeneration of central nerve pathways that elicit fictive feeding by using single cell electrophysiology. During my studies on regeneration, I discovered that the feeding system of Aplysia also underwent a plasticity that is reminiscent of short-term memory.

My academic knowledge in numerous areas of biology, my experience as a scientist in the laboratory, and my teaching experience have played significant roles in the shaping of my teaching philosophy. I strongly believe that these experiences have given me the necessary tools to teach biology in ways that promote a better understanding of biological concepts while making education an enjoyable experience. I believe that the goal of every instructor is to increase student's knowledge and understanding while making education an enjoyable experience. I am a firm believer that an instructor is both an educator and a facilitator. As an educator, the instructor provides the students with essential information that they need to know about the subject matter. As a facilitator, the instructor guides the students in the direction they should go to find answers and to solve problems.



I am currently teaching Human Anatomy (B231), Human Physiology (B241), Human Anatomy & Phyiology (B210), Integrated Medical Science (B160), and General Biology (B101) at Cypress College. I was also the Cypress College Orange County Teacher of the year in 2021.

Hobbies

I obtained my private pilot certification while working on my Ph.D. I fly single engine land aircraft, mainly the Cessna 172. My favorite aircraft to fly is the Warrior P28A. I also love to run, and I consider myself a marathon runner (now that I am older). In my younger years, I was mainly a middle distance runner, I ran the 1500 meter, 800 meter, and even the 400 meter track events. At one point I even had a national record in the 3000 meter track event.