Ara Alan alum Undergraduate Biology/Chemistry (Pre-Med) Doctor M.D. Sulemaniah/ Iraqi-Kurdistan Painting and Sculpting, following Mideast politics, May 2002 ara_1981@hotmail.com Joan C. Flores aka J.C. alum Undergraduate Biology/Chemistry (Pre-Med) Doctor M.D. Sulemaniah/ Iraqi-Kurdistan Painting and Sculpting, following Mideast politics, May 2002 jflores2@student.gsu.edu Sharon Kerr alum Post Baccalaureate Biology/Chemistry Public Health Specialist New Rochelle, New York Reading, Teaching, Yoga September 2005 sharonrkerr@gmail.com Drew Kohlhorst alum Graduate Ph.D. Candidate, Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry Academia, Undergraduate level Lynchburg, VA Biking, Hiking, Computers and my dogs June 2003 DKohlhorst@comcast.net Mike Nebiker alum Undergraduate Chemistry/Biology Research Professor at a University Rome, NY Tau Sigma Academic Honor Society Website design, PC gaming, reading and collecting books, botany, gardening, natural products chemistry. May 2004 mnebiker1@gsu.edu Candice Nelson alum Undergraduate (Senior) Biology/Chemistry To be a Oral Surgeon \w a Ph D in Biomedical Research Originally form Fresno, California Reading, swimming, and hanging out with friends December 2004 David Tippens alum and Resident Anthropologist Post Graduate Anthropology with a concentration in Biology and the evolution of language. Education and Research with a focus on the human hyoid, language, computer modeling and the development of a broader theoretical model for related concepts.  Buckhead, GA (The one with the post office J ). : American Association of Physical Anthropologists MMPOGs, hiking, consumption of sci-fi and fantasy multimedia and springboard diving. September 2002 davetippens@yahoo.com Michelle Ventura alum Graduate Masters in Science Orange County, California September, 2004. Tanisha Witcher alum Degree: Undergraduate Biology/chemistry To become a Pharmacist Cleveland, OH Science, listening to music, traveling, relaxing December 2004 twitcher1@student.gsu.edu Olamipo Awoyemi B.S. in Biology from Georgia State University (Dec 2000), M.S. in Biology, conc. in Neuro from Georgia State University (May 2004), M.Ed in Science Ed from Georgia State University (July 2005) 4/08 update: "I am currently teaching at McNair HS in Dekalb County. This will be my third year. I'm teaching Environmental Science, Physical Science and AP Envronmental Science. Oh, and Brasilia [Bilal - see below], is also here at McNair HS serving as our Science Dept Chairperson- and doing a wonderful job too..." High School Science Teacher Athens, GA. (Raised in Lagos, Nigeria, and Southeast London) Basketball, Art, Music January 2002 – June 2004 oal151@yahoo.com “This was by far the most enjoyable job I’ve ever had. It’s part of the reason I chose to be a teacher.” Gayatri Ayala M.S. in Microbiology from India (1998-2000), Masters in Bio-Informatics from Georgia State University (2001-2004) I study Calcium binding proteins at Dr. Jenny Yang’s research lab at Georgia State University. Masters in Public Health, and/or dual degree program (MBA/MHA) at Georgia State University. India Quizzing, Comics April 2002 – March 2005 gayalasomayajul1@student.gsu.edu “I have thoroughly enjoyed being a part of the Bio-Bus program. Thanks to Dr. Baumstark, and to the entire Bio-Bus crew for making every day memorable.” Sarah Bexell PhD Early Childhood Science Education/Conservation Sciences Director of Conservation Education at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China Conservation education planning, development, and implementation for an international organization Freeport, IL Hiking, camping, jogging Summer 2003 gitamarin@mindspring.com "My favorite memory from Bio-Bus days are that each time I went out I could feel, and experience the joy, wonder, and beauty of animals through children’s eyes, and know that most children we reached would think differently and more positively about animals, and their conservation. I can’t thank Dr. Baumstark, Genevieve, the animals, and students and teachers enough for giving me the opportunity to do such important (and fun!!) educational outreach." Brazilia Bilal BS-Biology/Chemistry (Howard University -2002)/ Graduate Biology To develop educational curriculums which increase the scientific literacy of students Coram, New York Reading, Traveling, Outdoor Sports, Volunteering January, 2005 braziliabilal@aol.com Steven Brown B.S in Electrical Engineering/ Physics (double major) from the University of New Orleans; M.S. in Physics- Applied Bio-Physics at Georgia State University Physicist, Fernbank Science Center Atlanta, Ga; Research MD/PhD in Pediatric Oncology in Los, Angeles. Ca May 2001-June 2004 "Mr. Benton, what is a herbievore and a artchapod?" Merry Clark B.S. in Zoology from University of Florida (1993), M.S. in Biology from Georgia State University (2002). 2002-Present: Graduate student at G.S.U. (Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry). Awarded a Molecular Basis for Disease alumship (2005). Teaching Anatomy and Physiology II labs (awarded excellence in teaching award by the department, 2005). Currently studying the molecular underpinnings of neuromodulation. Hoping to focus on teaching at a local University, small emphasis on research. Brooksville, FL I have given all of these up, as I am currently planning my wedding! 2001-2002 biomcc2@langate.gsu.edu “Of course, my fondest memory is that of Chris (Heddon) taking off the top of the bus by driving under a carport at one of the schools.” Myra Colombani B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez Campus (May 2001), M.S. in Chemistry from Georgia State University (July 2004). 2004-Present: Sixth grade science teacher at Hapeville Middle School in Atlanta, Georgia To obtain a Ph.D. in Educational Policy Studies with concentrations in educational leadership and become a Middle School Principal. Lajas, Puerto Rico Muay Thai, cooking, traveling. June 2002-July 2004 m_colombani@hotmail.com “The magic that drives the Bio-Bus Program is the dedicated and excellent faculty and staff involved. During my years in the Bio-Bus program I met excellent professionals, but more important I made good friends. Always, Gracias (Thank You).” Vashonda Y. Dailey B.S. in Chemistry from Georgia Southern University (May 1999), M.S. in Chemistry from Georgia State University (May 2004). Chemist at Fernbank Science Center in Atlanta, Georgia Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia June 2001 - August 2004 vashonda.dailey@fernbank.edu, v_dailey@hotmail.com “I remember teaching the heart module at an elementary school when a 2nd grader says, cows must really have a lot of love. When I asked why, she innocently responded, because they have big hearts!” Warren Fiskus B.S. in Biology fromValdosta State University (1997), Ph.D. in Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry from Georgia State University (2004) Postdoctoral alum, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida. My current projects involve investigating the effects of hydroxamate based Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors on both Acute myelogenous leukemia and chronic myelogenous leukemia and in estrogen receptor positive breast cancers. My long term goals include either working as a research scientist for a drug company or starting my own laboratory here in Tampa and doing research till I am very old. Thomasville and Atlanta, Georgia : ....hmmm... I enjoy working in my yard, playing video games, surfing the web and watching movies, when I am not enjoying the view from my back porch. I remember that I started with the Bio-Bus sometime in 2003 and went out one last time in January 2004 for a Microbes and You module. wcfiskus@yahoo.com “My fondest memories of the Bio-bus program were that I got to work with a very talented group of people who all had different interests and diverse teaching methods which made the various modules so much better. My best memories would have to be the Animal Diversity module and holding a straight face every time the children asked us if we collected the animals in the jars and their reaction to the live leeches. My favorite story from Drew on the Bus was the "Momma said you can't eat chicken in the pool" story. I get the giggles every time I think about Drew telling that story.” Sally Gutzke B.A., 1969 and M.A., 1971, Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; M.S.W., Social Work, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, 1982; L.C.S.W. Commercial Art, Certificate Degree, Lane School of Art, Decatur, Georgia, 1998. Realtor, with RE/MAX Executives I am an independent contractor with RE/MAX so I am developing a small business. My goal is to create a successful venture that provides income for the next 15-20 years and freedom to visit grandchildren and develop my other interests. I think the freedom and time will come in a couple of years. Birmingham, Alabama Grandchildren (6 at last count), gardening (former Master Gardener), water color and graphic design. Spring 2000-October of 2004. “My Bio-Bus experience was delightfully two-fold. I got to teach the little ones (and I enjoyed the lower elementary the best). I loved seeing the spark of interest and excitement in their eyes. Nurturing that love of learning is an honor and privilege and also absolutely great fun. On the other hand I got the joy of working with the graduate students as they sought their career paths. I got to encourage their journeys and support their teaching efforts, again both a privilege and a joy.” Michelle Iturbe Bachelors in Biology with a Minor in Chemistry (12-18-2004), GSU Graduate study at George Washington University, pursuing Masters in Forensic Science with concentration in Molecular Biology. Ph.D. in the field of Forensics. Fayetteville, GA My cat Neo! and I have recently become interested in Whitewater Rafting/Kayaking. January 2005-August 2005 Mi731Mi@gwu.edu “The best thing about Bio-bus is the students. After teaching a class, when students come up to you wanting to know more about any type of science, the reward is not having taught but seeing them yearn for more!” Rochelle Johnson B.S. from Florida AM University, M.S. from Georgia State University Dekalb County School System Forensics, Medicine Atlanta, GA Reading, Teaching, April 2003-July 2004 rjohnson42u@yahoo.com “I will never forget the expressions on the students faces as they walked onto the bus during the Animal Diversity presentation.” Crystal Jones B.S. Biology, Georgia State University, 2005 Microbiology and Molecular Genetics doctoral program at Emory University Molecular basis of bacterial pathogenesis Thomaston, GA Current Topics in Microbiology, Walking, Computers, Playing with my dog (Cocoa) April 2003-June 2006 jonesc82@hotmail.com “I have many memories of my days on the Bio-Bus and made some lasting friendship with some alums. One of my wildest memories is the day that the Bio-Bus caught a flat two flat tires in one day. On the way to a school in a rural area off of I-75 North Ian noticed that our tire was going flat, and by the time we left the school after a short day of teaching the tire was completely flat and another one blew out on our way back to Atlanta. We ended up parking on the side of I-285 to wait for a tow. All of the alums took the chairs out of the back of the bus and ate lunch on the side of I-285.People were slowing up on the Expressway to look at us. It was a very exciting day to say the least! This shows that Bio-Bus alums will go through anything to make it to a school---even if it means their lives : )” Kristina D. Keys, MS B.S. in Biology/Pre-Medicine from Florida AM University (Aug. 2001), M.S. in Biology (Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry) from Georgia State University (Aug. 2003). 2nd Year Ph.D. student at Morehouse School of Medicine (Atlanta, GA) / Cardiovascular Research Institute Vascular research focusing on inflammatory responses Rockledge, Fl Finishing school for now August 2002-December 2003 Missk1218@aol.com “The Bio-Bus program allowed me to forge lifelong friendships and learn valuable lessons about science, as well as life.” Tim Laeger B.S. in Chemistry from Georgia State University (1998), M.S. in Chemistry from Georgia State University (2002) Currently finishing up 2nd year of medical school at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. Emergency medicine or general surgery. I guess Atlanta because I lived there for 16 years. Nothing anymore because I don’t have time, but before med school I liked to build furniture, scuba dive, fly, and martial arts. February 2000-August 2003 “I can certainly say that my time with the Bio-Bus was rewarding in several ways including the chance to work with and make new friends, teach and interact with an extremely diverse group of kids, and be allowed the flexibility of pursuing my ultimate goal of going to medical school. Thanks again…especially to Dr. Baumstark.” John Lassiter B.S. in Biology, with focus on microbiology and botany (2000), M.S. in Biology, Environmental Sciences (2004) California Closets Corporation as Training and Design Manager To attend MCG to become a Physician Assistant in Fall of 2006, to focus on Preventative Care and General Family Practice. Stone Mountain, Georgia Automotive work, camping, working with plants and animals, in addition to studying the effects of political policy on social evolution. 2000-2005 kasavalah@msn.com “Working with the Bio-Bus was one of the most rewarding experiences I have had. I enjoyed working with children and improving my ability to communicate complex subjects in easy to understand ways. The Bio-Bus allowed me to successfully pursue a Masters Degree in Biology with hopes of becoming involved with the medical community in the future. Overall, the Bio-Bus taught me much about myself and introduced me to a wonderful diversity of friends and acquaintances that I will remember for the rest of my life.” Tera Ung Lassiter Undergraduate Biology/Chemistry Anticipating graduation and pursuing a career in veterinary medicine or oncology Atlanta, GA Hanging out, dining-in, dancing, window-shopping, searching for critters and animals to poke and observe, cruising, traveling and exploring; loves trying out new projects; likes reading the classics, biography. August 2003 jessimineblue@hotmail.com Benton Lawson B.S. in Biology from Georgia State University (2000), M.S. in Molecular Genetics from Georgia State University (2003). Currently researching the pathogenesis of HIV-1 as it relates to the immune system and disease progression. Teach high-school, and mentor. Jamaica Music, reading, teaching, sports. 2001-2003 bolawso@emory.edu “We took the animal diversity module to Capitol Homes summer camp one year and those children really made an impression on me, and is one of the reasons I would like to teach.” Reginald Lewis B.S. in Chemistry from Georgia State University (2001), M.S. in Chemistry from Georgia State University (2002) Expected December 2006 Master of Medical Science (MMSc), Emory University. Current area of study is Physician Assistant student Physician Assistant (PA) Sylvania, Georgia Trumpet, German, weight lifting, running, tennis, biking June 2001-December 2002 reglewis76@yahoo.com “I enjoyed exposing students to science, especially the underserved populations who may not have had access to the equipment the Bio-Bus provided.” Katie Lowrie B.S. Biology/minor Chemistry from Georgia State University Science Teacher at East Coweta High School in Newnan, GA. I hope you be teaching science at the high school level for a long time! Winston-Salem, NC Cooking, gardening, watching Star Trek, spending time with my husband, Robert. May 2004—Aug 2005 Kathryn.lowrie@cowetaschools.org “I remember the first time I did the “ Have a Heart” module. We were in an elementary school and I gave the anti-smoking lecture. I had never worked with younger kids before so I talked to them like I would a middle or high schooler. By the time I got done telling them about the horrible effects of smoking (what it does to your lungs, how it can kill you), they all looked like they were about to cry. Needless to say, I learned that I needed to be a little more gentle and sympathetic when working with the younger ones.” Kimberly N. McGill B.S. in Biology from Clark Atlanta University, M.S. in Biology from Georgia State University North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services / Food and Drug Protection Division / Food Microbiology Lab / Agricultural Microbiologist Bioterrorism Supervisor Work in a Genetics Research Laboratory Florence, South Carolina Shopping, Reading, Meeting new friends June 2002-December 2003 kmcgill2000@yahoo.com “The Bio-Bus Program was an excellent learning experience for me for my career and I was also able to make some lifetime friends!! Thanks Bio-Bus!!!!!!” Quentin Dante Nelson B.S. in Chemistry from Georgia State University (2001), M.S. in Chemistry from G.S.U.(2002). Pharmacist Intern – Kroger Pharmacy, and South Fulton Medical Center. Doctor of Pharmacy Candidate at Mercer Universities Southern School of Pharmacy, Class of 2007. To become a retail, or hospital Pharmacist. Atlanta, GA School, school, and more school. June 2001-August 2002 qdnpharmd@aol.com “Having the opportunity to be called by a student the youngest looking teacher they’ve ever seen!” Kathy Rockwell B.A. in Biology from Georgia State University (2002) Undergraduate Advisor, Biology Department, GSU Masters in Education and teaching science Atlanta, GA Anything connected with Brazil, which she plans to visit this summer with her husband Aguirre Goncalves, who is Brazilian. Fall 2001-Spring 2002 biokxr@langate.gsu.edu "I will always appreciate my experience on the Bio-Bus. It increased my self-confidence a great deal, improved my skills at interacting with people as well as speaking in front of people, challenged me and ultimately helped to lead me to where I am today.” Kun Hui Yi B.S. in Microbiology from University of Georgia (2001), M.S. in Biology from Georgia State University (2003), B.S.N. from Georgia Baptist College of Nursing of Mercer University, tentative graduation date December 2005. Working at a local hospital, and studying really hard to graduate early from nursing school. I would love to become a nurse practitioner (not sure which specialty). Even after my grueling semester of nursing research, I would actually still consider nursing research as a future goal. Augusta, GA As of now, I like to read books that are not related to nursing; and I now consider naps a holiday. July 2002-July 2003 kunhui1@juno.com “Bio-Bus has really given me an opportunity to meet the brightest and nicest people that I could ever meet. I learned a lot from my peers in the aspects of communicating with each other and other people. I enjoyed every Bio-Bus outing because it allowed me to show children in a fun way how important science is in our lives.”