Mary Ellen Durham
Treasurer
Mary Ellen Durham
Biographical Information
Mary Ellen has over forty years of educational experience. During the first phase of her career she worked in both private and public schools, teaching elementary and middle school science, as well as, secondary-level biology, physics, physical science, environmental science, chemistry, and earth science. After fourteen years in the classroom, she transitioned to teaching at the undergraduate and graduate level and began conducting science and science education research. She has taught biology, physical science, research, statistics, instructional technology, and science curriculum and methodology courses at North Carolina State University, Wesleyan College, and Campbell University. The leadership roles she has held include that of science resource teacher, grade level chair, middle school team chair, school safety officer, science department chair, University Accreditation officer, and University Curriculum Chair. Mary Ellen has been active in the Student Academy of Science and Science Olympiad programs and frequently conducts professional development workshops. She is published and has 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. She has received 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. Mary Ellen holds a B.A. in Biology from Greensboro College and a Masters from Grand Valley State University. She earned a Ph.D. in Science Education (Interdisciplinary Sciences) from North Carolina State University and holds North Carolina Teaching licensure for grades k-12 comprehensive science. Her current research agenda focuses on environmental concerns. She is active in the National Association for Research in Science Teaching, the National Science Teacher Association, the North Carolina Middle School Association, the Association of Colleges of Teacher Education, and the Southeast Association for The Education of Teachers in Science. She has been a member of NCSTA for over 35 years and served on the organization’s board as The University Liaison and Chair of the Nominations and Elections Chair. She currently holds the position of NCSTA treasurer. Mission Statement I have served as the NCSTA treasurer for the last two years and am willing to continue performing the duties associated with the office. I will work closely with the NCSTA Board, Executive Committee, and Business Manager to oversee all financial operations of the Association. I will act with honesty and integrity; work with the Business manager to verify that all NCSTA financial transactions are conducted in a fiscally responsible manner and that accurate financial records are maintained; and, with the Board’s approval, seek venues to enact cost effective measures for the implementation and support of the organization’s activities.
