NOBCChE Seminar: Andre K. Isaacs, College of the Holy Cross
About the Seminar
Shifting the Paradigm of Science Education and Mentoring to Improve Belonging
In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, along with rapid technological advancements and shifting generational cultures, educators face unprecedented challenges in sparking the curiosity of budding scientists. This seminar is dedicated to navigating these challenges with enthusiasm and compassion, as we explore innovative approaches to teaching that will empower the next generation of learners, with special attention to those from historically excluded groups. The focus extends beyond the conventional methods and embraces cutting-edge technologies and inclusive pedagogy to create an engaging and accessible learning environment.
About the Speaker
A native of Jamaica, André moved to the US to attend the College of the Holy Cross where he received his B.A. in Chemistry in 2005. As an undergraduate, he conducted research in the labs of Kevin J. Quinn focusing on the total synthesis of annonaceous acetogenins Muricatacin and Rollicosin. He received his PhD from the University of Pennsylvania in 2011 (under the guidance of Professor Jeffery D. Winkler), where he focused on the design and synthesis of novel steroid-derived inhibitors of Hedgehog-signaling, based on the alkaloid cyclopamine. He worked as a post-doctoral researcher with Professor Richmond Sarpong at the University of California, Berkeley, where he focused on the synthesis of diterpenoids and the radiolabeled insecticide chlorantraniliprole. In 2012, Andre accepted a tenure-track position at the College of the Holy Cross. In 2018, Andre was promoted to the rank of Associate Professor with tenure. In addition to teaching courses in Organic Chemistry, Andre conducts research utilizing copper-mediated organic transformations. He is one of the co-founding members of Outfront - the college's LGBTQ faculty and staff alliance and serves as faculty advisor to a number of student groups including the Caribbean African Students' Assemblage, acapella group Fools on the Hill and Club Tennis.
Host: Ashley Saunders