What motivated you to choose your career?
I struggled a LOT with chemistry in college, but the extra effort I put in to master the subject gave me both a deep respect for the field and a real sense of accomplishment. I recently transitioned from research to teaching because I’ve hit different career milestones that I’m proud of, and now I want to help the next generation of chemists get excited about this field too.
How did you decide what university or college to attend?
I stayed in my home state of Wisconsin for all of my education. Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (Technical Diploma in Dental Assisting) and the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay (Bachelor of Science in Human Biology) were both in my hometown, allowing me to live at home and save money. Later, I moved to the Milwaukee area to attend Concordia University Wisconsin (Master of Science in Chemical Product Development and an MBA Certificate in Management). I was drawn to Concordia because it offered the chemistry and business hybrid education I wanted to pursue.
How did you find and apply to your current position?
I learned about my current role, Instructor of Practical Applications (Chemistry) at the United States Naval Academy, through a CSW event! I was on a career panel for Project SEED students this past summer, and one of the other panelists told me about the role. Prof. Wesley Farrell helped me understand USNA’s mission and showed me how my diverse work and entrepreneurial experiences could benefit Midshipmen majoring in chemistry.
What are your daily job responsibilities?
At USNA, I teach in the “Integrated Laboratory” or IL program, which includes lab courses for chemistry majors. I prepare and set up experiments in both wet labs and instrumentation labs, serve as a subject matter expert for our wide range of analytical instruments, and manage lab supplies, including chemicals, consumables, cryogenic liquids, compressed gases, and solvents. I also handle various lab management tasks as they come up. Now that I’m settling in, I’m starting to explore ways to incorporate NMR research projects into the academy.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
One of my biggest milestones was launching 8 Count Cosmetics last year. I co-founded the company with my good friend Michael Baugh, and together we ‘ve a line of cosmetic products designed for performing artists. We took this project from concept to market launch, largely self-funded and entirely managed outside of our regular jobs. I’m especially proud that I was able to use my chemistry background to design a makeup palette that’s easy to use, durable enough for athletic performers, and inclusive of all skin tones.
What was your most challenging project?
One of my biggest career challenges was relocating from Wisconsin to Maryland during the COVID-19 pandemic to work as a contracted NMR Chemist at NIH/NCATS. Onboarding into a new role while social distancing and having minimal onsite time was difficult, but once things started returning to normal, I was able to take on exciting work—like playing a key role in developing the Center’s automation-based NMR fragment screening program.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love combining my passion for chemistry with teaching and mentorship. Engaging with students at the United States Naval Academy and helping them develop as scientists is incredibly fulfilling. At the same time, my entrepreneurial work allows me to stay creative, innovate, and advocate for chemical safety in consumer products.
How do you approach work-life balance?
Balancing multiple roles requires strong time management, and I’ve had to experiment with different techniques to stay organized. I keep a strict schedule to make sure no time is wasted—this helps me juggle work, volunteer commitments, and personal time with my husband and friends. Prioritizing downtime is important too!
Do you have any extracurricular activities?
I am involved in several volunteer leadership roles, including:
- Chair of Sponsorship for Women In Bio (WIB) Capital Region
- Manager-At-Large and Budget Committee Lead for the Chemical Society of Washington (CSW)
- Scientific Organizing Committee for the Practical Applications of NMR in Industry Conference (PANIC)
- Committee member for the Washington Area Magnetic Resonance Association (WAMRA)
What advice would you give to new scientists?
Take initiative in your career! Don’t hesitate to ask for more responsibilities, new opportunities, or even a raise—advocating for yourself is crucial for professional growth. You’re in charge of your own path, so be proactive in shaping it.
