Joseph Cortez
Joseph graduated in Spring 2024 with a B.S. in Mathematics with a Secondary Education concentration. During his tenure in 91¹û¶³´«Ã½â€™s Noyce Scholarship Program, he spearheaded a project focused on developing specialized teacher knowledge, specifically integrating technology, pedagogy, and content knowledge (TPACK). As a highlight of this research, Joseph produced a professional instructional video detailing the conversion between Radians and Degrees using interactive iPad whiteboards, demonstrating how emerging technologies can clarify complex mathematical concepts. Since graduation, Joseph has moved into the classroom full-time, applying these innovative pedagogical strategies to support his students' growth. He is currently entering his second year teaching high school mathematics at Windham High School in Willimantic, CT, where he continues to bridge the gap between abstract math and interactive learning.
Amanda Hall
Amanda graduated in Spring 2024 with a B.S. in Mathematics with a Secondary Education concentration. As an SCSU Noyce Scholar, she was a key contributor to the MaPP (Mathematical Puzzle Programs) Challenge research team, an outreach initiative that fosters discovery and exploration for students in grades 7–12. Her work involved developing metrics to measure how puzzle-based learning shifts student attitudes toward mathematics, a project she had the honor of presenting alongside Project PI Dr. Sherwood at the July 2024 Noyce Summit in Washington, D.C. Today, Amanda brings that same spirit of inquiry to her own classroom as a full-time mathematics teacher at Windham Middle School in Willimantic, CT. By prioritizing discovery-based learning in a high-need district, she is fulfilling her Noyce service commitment and helping her middle school students see themselves as capable mathematical thinkers.
Andrew Mansfield
Andrew graduated in Spring 2024 with a B.S. in Physics Secondary Education. During his time as an SCSU Noyce Scholar, he participated in an NSF funded project in which he worked with faculty in SCSU's Department of Physics, under the supervision of Project co-PI Dr. Broadbridge, as well as partners from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Lowell Observatory, to construct instrumentation for astronomical imaging. As part of this project, Andrew also developed related curricular modules for use in high school physics instruction. During his student teaching semester, Andrew developed a connection with his placement school, and was offered a long-term substitute teaching position there, which he continued after he graduated from 91¹û¶³´«Ã½. Andrew continues to substitute teach while he pursues his Master’s Degree in Applied Physics at SCSU. He plans to teach full-time and fulfill the Noyce teaching service commitment once he obtains his Master’s degree.
Julia Grant
Julia is a Biology Secondary Education major currently in her senior year at 91¹û¶³´«Ã½. Raised in Norwich, Connecticut, Julia’s commitment to STEM is fueled by her passion for environmental protection, social justice, and the vital representation of women and minorities in scientific fields. Throughout her time as an OwlsTeach scholar, she has translated her curiosity about biology into inclusive lesson plans that resonate with diverse student populations. Having fallen in love with the New Haven community during her studies, Julia is dedicated to remaining in the city after graduation to begin her teaching career, where she aims to inspire the next generation of urban scientists to explore the natural world.
Emily Jasinski
Emily is a senior majoring in Mathematics Secondary Education and was born and raised in Wallingford, Connecticut. Her core philosophy as a future educator centers on creating a "brave space" in the classroom, a comfortable environment where students view failure not as a setback but as a necessary part of the mathematical discovery process. Emily believes that because mathematics often yields a single objective answer, it provides a unique platform for teaching resilience and self-confidence. As an OwlsTeach scholar, she is honing her ability to help students overcome "math anxiety" and develop the confidence needed to pursue their dreams in any professional field.
Aiden Kennedy
Aiden is a senior Physics Secondary Education major hailing from Prospect, Connecticut. His journey through the OwlsTeach program has been defined by his fascination with the fundamental laws that govern the physical world and a deep-seated desire to collaborate with others. Aiden focuses on making complex physics concepts tangible and relatable, believing that a strong foundation in scientific literacy is essential for the future. By emphasizing peer collaboration and hands-on experimentation, Aiden hopes to leave a lasting impact on his future students, equipping them with the problem-solving skills necessary to navigate and improve the world around them.
Julie Reynolds
Julie is an alumna of the OwlsTeach MAT program in Secondary Chemistry Education. Originally from Guilford, Connecticut, Julie earned her Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Connecticut, then spent a year in the biotechnology industry. This professional background in innovation now informs her classroom practice, where she emphasizes the real-world applications of chemical science. Julie is currently fulfilling her Noyce service commitment as a full-time Chemistry teacher at West Haven High School. She is dedicated to fostering a learning environment driven by curiosity, where her students "think and act like scientists" through hands-on lab experiments and inquiry-based discovery.
Zaya Powell
Zaya is an alumna of the MAT Biology Secondary Education program, having graduated from 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ in Fall 2025. Born and raised in Connecticut, she is deeply motivated by the belief that classroom representation is a primary catalyst for student success. As a woman of color in STEM, Zaya understands the unique challenges faced by underrepresented students and aims to create an inclusive, supportive environment where all learners feel valued and encouraged. Her pedagogical approach is centered on empowerment, using her own experiences and health science background to bridge the gap for students from diverse backgrounds. Now transitioning into her professional career, Zaya is fulfilling her Noyce service commitment as a mentor and advocate, helping the next generation form a love for science that leads to meaningful contributions to society.
Samantha Rocano
Samantha is a graduate student in the MAT Biology Secondary Education program, having previously completed her undergraduate studies in Biology. Currently on track to graduate in Spring 2026, Samantha is dedicated to bridging the gap between high-level biological research and classroom instruction. As an OwlsTeach scholar, she creates engaging, inquiry-based lessons that help students connect the life sciences to their daily lives. Samantha aims to use her background in biology to foster a supportive learning environment where students feel empowered to explore scientific curiosities and pursue careers in the health and environmental sectors.
Nicholas Mahoney
Nicholas is a Mathematics Secondary Education major at 91¹û¶³´«Ã½, currently working toward his graduation in Spring 2027. Hailing from the Connecticut area, Nicholas is passionate about making mathematics a "transparent" subject for his students, removing the intimidation factor often associated with the field. Through the OwlsTeach program, he is developing pedagogical strategies that emphasize logic, problem-solving, and real-world application. Nicholas hopes to inspire his future students to see math not just as a set of rules, but as a powerful tool for understanding and navigating the world around them.
Nick DiMare
Nick is a Biology Secondary Education major and a proud member of the OwlsTeach Cohort 3. With a deep interest in the natural world and a passion for mentorship, Nick is focused on developing an inclusive science curriculum that represents diverse perspectives in STEM. During his time at 91¹û¶³´«Ã½, he has been exploring how hands-on laboratory experiences can increase student retention and excitement in the biological sciences. As he progresses toward his teaching certification, Nick looks forward to serving as a role model in Connecticut’s high-need districts, fostering a lifelong appreciation for science in every student he teaches.