Mary Ellen Durham
A 40-year veteran science teacher, Mary Ellen currently serves as the NCSTA treasurer. Working in private and public schools, she has taught science at the elementary, middle, and secondary levels. She taught secondary-level biology, physics, physical science, chemistry, environmental science, and earth science. While in the K-12 arena, Mary Ellen was very involved in science fairs, Student Academy of Science student research, and Science Olympiads and assumed numerous leadership roles including that of elementary school science resource teacher, grade level chair, middle school team chair, school safety officer, and science department chair. After fourteen years as a classroom teacher, Mary Ellen transitioned to the collegiate level where she taught science education, educational technology, physical and life science courses and began a research agenda focusing on environmental issues and effective science classroom dialogue. She has held faculty appointments at North Carolina State University, Wesleyan College, and Campbell University. She has conducted a variety of teacher workshops and presented at numerous conferences sponsored by the National Science Teacher Association, North Carolina Science Teacher Association, NCAT/PAGE, and the Seattle University Council on Excellence in Teaching.
Mary Ellen holds a B.A. in Biology from Greensboro College and a Master of Education (Gifted and Science from Grand Valley State University. She earned a Ph.D. in Science Education (Interdisciplinary Sciences) from North Carolina State University. Mary Ellen has been an active member of the North Carolina Science Teacher Association for over thirty-five years, and has served on its board as the University Liaison Chair and the Nominations and Elections Chair. As the NCSTA Treasurer, she provides oversight to, and with the Board’s approval, enacts cost effective measures for the implementation and support of the organization’s activities. Mary Ellen has received multiple recognitions for her contributions to science education including the Campbell University School of Education 2001 Dean’s Excellence in Teaching Award; the Greensboro College 2004 Alumni Excellence Award; and the 2013 North Carolina Science Teacher Association Vi Hunsucker Outstanding Science Educator in North Carolina Award. Now as Professor Emeriti from Campbell University she continues to present teacher workshops and is engaged in sea turtle research.
