BIOMEDICAL EXPLORATIONS: BENCH
TO BEDSIDE
2015 PROGRAM BOOK
UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
CENTER FOR PRECOLLEGIATE EDUCATION AND TRAINING
Biomedical Explorations: Bench to Bedside
A Partnership Program
University of Florida
June 14 – June 26, 2015
Funded by a precollege award from:
With additional support provided by:
2015 Bench to Bedside Summer Institute Program Book
Page 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Welcome………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………….……4
Bench to Bedside…………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………..…..….5
University of Florida Center for Precollegiate Education and Training…………….….…………………….……….6
2015 Participant Map………………………………………………………………………………….………………………….……...…7
2015 Participant Information……………………………………………………………………….…….…………………….….…...8
2015 Participant Biographical Sketches ……………………………………………..….……………………………………….…9
2015 School and Participant Demographic Information…………………………………………………………….………13
UF CPET Faculty and Staff Information…………………………………………………………………………………...………..14
2015 Bench to Bedside Presenters….……………………………………………………………………………………….……....15
2015 Bench to Bedside Summer Institute Program Book
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Welcome to the Bench to Bedside Summer Institute! We are so excited to have the opportunity to work with fantastic
high school science teachers from across the state of Florida in this partnership. We hope that you gain many new
experiences during your time at the University and are able to translate the current research into your classroom
curriculum.
As partners, your feedback is absolutely essential. The program will continue to grow with a new cohort of teachers
each year for the next two years, and we hope to improve the program each time. Your comments will help make that
happen.
We look forward to our two-weeks together this summer and also to continue communications with you as we
collaborate to enrich science teaching and learning and to better prepare and inspire our young students for the diverse
array of career opportunities in science and technology.
Go Gators!
The CPET Staff
2015 Bench to Bedside Summer Institute Program Book
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Biomedical Explorations: Bench to Bedside
Biomedical Explorations: Bench to Bedside is an exciting new opportunity for high school teachers, funded by a Science Education
Partnership Award from the National Institutes of Health NCRR, to engage in innovative and continuing professional development.
Bench to Bedside connects researchers in interdisciplinary biomedical sciences with high school teachers to promote students’
interest in and preparation for bioscience careers along the continuum of translational research—from discovery to production of
medicines and therapeutics. This innovative program integrates experiences from a summer Institute into classroom action during
the school year.
During the Institute, an experimental sequence in basic science and clinical and applied research environments will illustrate
scientific content, pedagogical methods, career options, and conceptual and technological interrelationships within translational
research. Teachers will work with science, industry and education researchers to develop lessons and laboratory exercises that
convey the principles of translational research and drug development in the context of career choices. Teachers also become
researchers in their own classrooms as they use tools developed during the institute to study the effectiveness of instruction on
student learning outcomes.
During the school year, research proposals, resources, formal presentations, review of classroom outcomes and incentives for
ongoing professional development will provide continuing support and encouragement to incorporate scientific processes, realworld skills and enthusiasm for bioscience careers into schools in rural and economically disadvantaged settings.
The project supports science teachers with opportunities for personal enrichment and professional advancement in biotechnology
education and empowers them as agents of change in classrooms. It draws on all components of medical and biotechnology
research and education at the University of Florida to further the recruitment, education and certification of high school teachers,
especially those from rural and underserved communities.
Teacher responsibilities:




Attend the two-week Summer Institute at UF (July 14- July 26) and create an Action Proposal, incorporating current
research focused on emerging pathogens into a classroom-ready unit
Implement Action Proposals in classroom with graduate student assistance; provide inservice training to other school and
district teachers; share progress with B2B program participants and coordinators.
Present the interim results of Action Proposals at the annual Florida Junior Science, Engineering and Humanities Symposium
(JSEHS) held at UF (February, 2016)
Prepare a final written report detailing the outcomes of the Action Proposal (April, 2016)
Upon successful completion of the Bench to Bedside program requirements, teachers will receive:







Access to biotechnology equipment lockers and professional support for classroom activities
An opportunity to apply for a $200 mini grant to implement action proposals
Continued communication and assistance from UF
Expertise and support in modifying curricula aligned with national and state standards
Priority seating in teacher workshops offered by the UF Center for Precollegiate Education and Training
Opportunity to participate in summer research internships
Three credits towards a Certificate in Biotechnology Education, further graduate studies, and/or Florida teacher
recertification.
Funding support provided by:
2015 Bench to Bedside Summer Institute Program Book
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UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
CENTER FOR PRECOLLEGIATE EDUCATION AND TRAINING
UF CPET is the University of Florida’s “umbrella” for the articulation and transfer of current science, technology, engineering and
mathematics (STEM) by linking research faculty and students with K-12 school teachers and students through a variety of campus
and statewide programs. For almost half a century, CPET has offered discovery-based learning opportunities for secondary school
students and, in more recent years, for teachers. The infrastructure of this University Center allows efficient and effective use of
resources to administer programs on campus and throughout Florida. Its programs incorporate bridging activities that include
teachers, researchers and industry professionals in preparing and delivering effective STEM education and career opportunities from
middle school through graduate school. National and state science education standards govern CPET instructional programs.
Activities are designed around National Research Council and Florida criteria for students to learn skills and acquire knowledge, and
for developing curricula.
As a Center in Academic Affairs, CPET involves more than 300 UF scientists and engineers annually in its outreach programs. CPET
also has an established history of collaborations with local, regional and state schools, and with educational and scientific
professional societies. Professional development programs supported by NIH NCRR, HHMI, NIEHS, NSF, Woodrow Wilson
Foundation and the University of Florida expand the content knowledge, skills, resources, and enthusiasm of in-service teachers.
They also forge long-term relationships with researchers that result in converting new expertise into measurably successful new
learning modules for students.
2015 Bench to Bedside Summer Institute Program Book
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2015 Bench to Bedside
Participant Distribution Map
Jennifer Guillard
Donely Santiago
Wendy Vidor
Carlene Rogers
Patrick Kelly
Charles Krininger III
Nigel Jagoo
Amy Martin
Marie-Romie Alexis
Ailyn Barrios
Trina Comacho-Rorie
Denisse Conway
Jocelyn Ferguson
Rachel Gerhard-Sterner
Rochelle Glenn
Laurel Lambkin
Margaret Lawrence
James Powell Jr.
Steven Wilkie
Shavon Brookman
Saffiyah Manboard
Iris Payan
Brian Ruhmann
2015 Bench to Bedside Summer Institute Program Book
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2015 PARTICIPANT
INFORMATION
Mrs. Marie-Romie Alexis
Lake Worth High School
Palm Beach
marie.alexis@palmbeachschools.org
Biology (9-12)
Ms. Ailyn Barrios
Palm Beach Central High School
Palm Beach
ailyn.barrios@palmbeachschools.org
Biology (10)
Ms. Shavon Brookman
Western High School
Broward
shavon.brookman@browardschools.com
AP Biology (10-12)
Mrs. Trina Comacho-Rorie
Roosevelt Middle School
Palm Beach
trina.comachororie@palmbeachschools.org
Medical Science (6-7) and adult education
Mrs. Denisse Conway
Palm Beach Central High School
Palm Beach
denisse.conway@palmbeachschools.org
Honors Biology (9-10)
Mrs. Jocelyn Ferguson
Roosevelt Middle School
Palm Beach
joce902@gmail.com
Science (7) and AVID science
Ms. Rachel Gerhard-Sterner
Bak MSOA
Palm Beach
Rachel.GerhardSterner@palmbeachschools.org
Life Science (7)
Mrs. Rochelle Glenn
Roosevelt Middle School
Palm Beach
rochelle.davisglenn@palmbeachschools.org
Biomedical Science and Medical Academy
Ms. Jennifer Guillard
Mandarin High School
Duval
guillardj@duvalschools.org
9 Pre-AICE Biology (9) and AICE Biology (12)
Mr. Nigel Jagoo
Leto High School
Hillsborough
nigeljagoo@gmail.com
Anatomy and Physiology (10)
Mr. Patrick Kelly
Leesburg High School
Lake
kellyp@lake.k12.fl.us
AP Physics, Honors Biology, Biology
Mrs. Donely Santiago
Mandarin High School
Duval
santiagod@duvalschools.org
Biology/Biotechnology (9-12)
Mr. Charles Krininger III
Satellite High School
Brevard
krininger.charles@brevardschools.org
Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology, assist
with Science Research
Mrs. Wendy Vidor
Matanzas High School
Flagler
vidorw@flaglerschools.com
Ag Biotechnology and Marine Science
Ms. Laurel Lambkin
Lantana Community Middle School
Palm Beach
llambkin@hotmail.com
Science (7)
Mr. Steven Wilkie
South Fort Myers High School
Lee
stevenjw@leeschools.net
AP Biology and Marine Science Honors (1112)
Mrs. Margaret Lawrence
William T. Dwyer High School
Palm Beach
MLawr10295@bellsouth.net
Biology (9-10)
Ms. Saffiyah Manboard
Seagull School
Broward
saffiyah.manboard@browardschools.com
Biology/Biotechnology (9-12)
Ms. Amy Martin
Jesuit High School Tampa
HIllsborough
amartin@jesuittampa.org
AP Biology, Biology
Dr. Iris Payan
Hollywood Hills High School
Broward
iris.payan@browardschools.com
Chemistry Honors (10-12), AP Chemistry (1112)
Mr. James Powell Jr.
Roosevelt Middle School
Palm Beach
james.powell@palmbeachschools.org
Life Science (8)
Ms. Carlene Rogers
Wekiva High School
Orange
Carlene.rogers@ocps.net
Anatomy and Physiology Honors, AP Biology
(10-12)
Mr. Brian Ruhmann
MAST Academy at Homestead
Miami-Dade County
bsruhmann@gmail.com
Pharmaceutical Sciences (11-12), AP
Chemistry (10-12)
2015 Bench to Bedside Summer Institute Program Book
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2015 PARTICIPANT BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Mrs. Marie-Romie Alexis, Lake Worth High School
Biographical Sketch: My name is Marie-Romie Alexis. I have been a biology teacher at Lake Worth High school for the last past four
years. Previously, I taught Science at Tradewinds Middle School. Both schools are located in Palm Beach County. I enjoy learning and
improving the quality of service that I offer to my students. Attending this training is a great opportunity to make my students'
experience in my classroom an imprint of a lifetime.
Ms. Ailyn Barrios, Palm Beach Central High School
Biographical Sketch: Being an educator has always been my goal in life. When I stepped into my first field experience classroom in
college, I knew this was what I was meant to do. I attended Palm Beach Atlantic University, where I received a bachelor’s degree in
Secondary Education/ Biology. I am currently attending The University of Florida’s Graduate program for Educational Leadership.
My ultimate goal is to oversee the Science Department at a high school as an administrator. I have been teaching for five years at
Palm Beach Central High School where I currently teach regular Biology to tenth grade students. I have attended the University of
Florida’s ICORE Emerging Pathogens summer program in 2012 and the UF Summer Science Institute in 2013. Both programs have
helped shape the teacher I am today. This profession is challenging yet, extremely rewarding. I am privileged to have the
opportunity to shape future scientists and grateful for the summer programs UF provides.
Ms. Shavon Brookman, Western High School
Biographical Sketch: My goal as a science teacher is to be able to teach ALL students Biology. I want them all to learn, to enjoy, and
to make memories of the curriculum. Far too many students don't get the hands on experience of science. It is my objective that all
students get to experience and visualize key concepts in Biology.
Mrs. Trina Comacho-Rorie, Roosevelt Middle School
Biographical Sketch: I have been in the medical field since I was 19 years old. My clinical background includes Laboratory Technician,
Diabetic Educator (Insulin Pump Specialist), Clinical Study Coordinator, and now Medical Science Educator. I am very passionate
about being a health care professional. I had the honor of teaching adult interested in the medical field everything I know. It was a
great feeling to know that most of my students were able to fulfill their dreams of being a health care professional. Last year, I was
given an opportunity to teach middle school children. I absolutely love it! They are like sponges soaking up as much as they can
receive and come back for more.
Mrs. Denisse Conway, Palm Beach Central High School
Biographical Sketch: For the past nine years, I have been a teacher at Palm Beach Central High School. Currently, I teach 9th and
10th grade honors biology to a great group of students. I graduated from Florida Atlantic University where I majored in Biology
with a concentration in microbiology, biotechnology and molecular biology. I love teaching and constantly search for new and
exciting ways to expand my knowledge base in order to provide more meaningful learning opportunities and experiences to my
students. My favorite part about teaching Biology is lab work and allowing students to interact with one another and have so me
fun. Not only is this type of learning the best way to assimilate concepts and curriculum, but it is something that I enjoy doing as
well.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Mrs. Jocelyn Ferguson, Roosevelt Middle School
Biographical Sketch: My name is Jocelyn Ferguson. I am a graduate of Florida Atlantic University where I received my bachelor’s
degree in Biological Sciences. After graduating, I realized my true passion of becoming a doctor was far and distant. I was not sure
2015 Bench to Bedside Summer Institute Program Book
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what I could do with a biology degree. I decided to become an educator and have been one ever since. A year later I enrolled at
Nova Southeastern University where I earned a master’s degree in Science Education. I also just rec ently finished my Ed Specialist
at Nova in CIMA.
Ms. Rachel Gerhard-Sterner, Bak MSOA
Biographical Sketch: I enjoy candlelight dinners and long walks on the beach...just kidding. I have been teaching for 12 years. I
have taught earth/space science, physical science, biology and biotechnology with regular students, ESOL students, and ESE
students and now have moved to the middle school level with gifted students. I am looking forward to meeting and getting new
ideas from all of you.
Mrs. Rochelle Glenn, Roosevelt Middle School
Biographical Sketch: My name is Rochelle Glenn. I am a Bio medical science and Medical Academy teacher in Palm Beach County.
I have a strong background in science. I earned my Bachelors of Science in Biology from Winthrop Universi ty in Rock hill South
Carolina. I also have my Certified Clinical Medical Assistance Licenses. I have been teaching for 12 years. Nine of those y ears I
taught integrated science.
Ms. Jennifer Guillard, Mandarin High School
Biographical Sketch: I have been teaching biology for 17 years, the last 12 of which have been in Florida. Prior to that, I taught in
South Carolina and Pennsylvania. I have a BS in Biological Sciences and a MS in Zoology. I achieved National Board Teacher
Certification 9 years ago and just successfully went through the recertification process. I teach Pre-AICE (9th) and AICE (12th)
Biology and also run the gifted program at my high school. I also chair the science department. I have 3 kids, 4 cats, and a slew
of classroom pets. I enjoy gardening, reading and travel. I love to learn new things and would really like to take this workshop.
Mr. Nigel Jagoo, Leto High School
Biographical Sketch: Nigel Jagoo has been in the field of education for seven years, teaching a range of courses, including Chemistry
Honors, AP Environmental Science, Biology, Physical Science, Integrated Science, and Hospital/Home Bound ESE. His most recent
appointment involved serving as a district mentor. In that role hr mentored and evaluated first and second year teachers in various
disciplines. Prior to that role, he served as a Science Coach, at Leto High School, as part of the ‘Lead Team’ in reaching students in
multiple subject areas. In addition to his extensive experience in multiple areas of the science curriculum in Hillsborough County
Public Schools, Nigel is an instructor at Hillsborough Community College in Microbiology and Anatomy and Physiology I and II.
Holding certifications in Biology, Chemistry, Earth/Space Science and Primary/Kindergarten, Nigel also attained his Reading
Endorsement in 2011. In addition, he serves on the screening committee for STEM Fair at both county and state levels. Nigel earned
his Bachelor’s degree from The University of Tampa, where he majored in Biology and minored in Spanish. He completed his
Master’s degree in Medical Sciences with a concentration in Molecular Medicine at The University of South Florida in December of
2012.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Mr. Patrick Kelly, Leesburg High School
Biographical Sketch: I am a teacher at Leesburg High School in Lake County. I currently teach AP Physics I, Honors Biology and
Biology. I graduated from University of Florida in 2012 with a B.S. in Biology. In my short career I have already taught 4 different
courses in the 3 previously mentioned and AP Environmental Science last year. I am originally from Massachusetts and still root for
my New England sports teams. I always enjoy learning more and try to bring that motivation and passion to my students.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Mr. Charles Krininger III, Satellite High School
2015 Bench to Bedside Summer Institute Program Book
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Biographical Sketch: Originally from southern Indiana, Charles attended the Indiana Academy of Science, Mathematics, Humanities,
for his final two years of high school. After graduation he attended Louisiana State University, where he received a B.S. in Animal
Science/ Science and Technology. While at LSU he had the privilege of working on a number of research projects. He then attended
the University of Florida and received his M.S. in Reproductive and Environmental Physiology. Currently, Mr. Krininger teaches at
Satellite High School in Satellite Beach, Florida and is a Lecturer at Eastern Florida State College in Melbourne Florida. He lives in Eau
Gallie, with his wife Cathy and has four great kids. His hobbies include cooking, camping, and spending time with his family.
Ms. Laurel Lambkin, Lantana Community Middle School
Biographical Sketch: Hello fellow educators, my name is Laurel. I have what I term a serendipitous relationship with science
education. I reflected just recently on where this all began. I recalled my curious meanderings during childhood in the rainforests
of my native home, observing, studying and documenting fascinating creatures and plan ts during my unusual childhood. I began
teaching Integrated Science Grades 6-8 about 5-6 years ago. Then I started teaching High School and backed into an interim
position teaching Chemistry and Biology (Honors and Regular). I am not sure where my journey with science will end secularly,
but I possess a profound love for and passion of science that I cherish about myself and hope that it will lead me to even greater
opportunities.
Mrs. Margaret Lawrence, William T. Dwyer High School
Biographical Sketch: I am 54 years old and was born in Jamaica. I left Jamaica at age 19 after completing high school and a year in
teacher's college. My family moved to Chicago where I spent a year, then I moved to Lincoln Nebraska where I attended the
University of Nebraska majoring in Biology and Psychology. After getting married, we moved to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida where I
completed my degree in Biology at Nova University. I have two daughters and I have been teaching science for the past 24 yea rs.
Ms. Saffiyah Manboard, Seagull School
Biographical Sketch: A fifth year science teacher with Broward County Public Schools, Saffiyah Manboard has a commitment to
fostering the development of young minds and encouraging students to explore their potential. Ms. Manboard graduated from the
University of Central Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with concentrations in Biological and Physical
sciences and a minor in Education. Ms. Manboard’s experience as a teacher in both private and public education has fostered her
development and has made her more sensitive to the diverse needs of her students. Ms. Manboard plans to continue to her role as
an educator, lifelong learner and mentor to students who have encountered roadblocks within their education path.
Ms. Amy Martin, Jesuit High School Tampa
Biographical Sketch: I am a lifelong student of Science, attracted to these workshops to rejuvenate my teaching in the classroom
and bring me into the modern science technology. As a veteran 23 year teacher, I am proof you can teach an old dog new trick s.
I have taught in CA, NC, GA, and FL. Teaching all HS science courses except Physics to all levels of students. My field experience
of sea turtle research in Australia and Humpback Whale research in MA have given me some great things to draw from in the
classroom. Currently, I am teaching at an all boys school in Tampa, FL
Dr. Iris Payan, Hollywood Hills High School
Biographical Sketch: I love science! I worked as a research scientist since I obtained my undergraduate degree. After working in
the diagnostic industry for several years, I went back to school and earned a chemistry doctoral degree. I returned to the
diagnostic field, researching and working with increasing responsibilities into supervisory and managerial positions in that
industry. I became an educator 16 years ago, first working as an adjunct in local colleges and universities and then as a full time
high school teacher. For 15 years now I have taught 9-12th students the wonders of science (Earth Science, Physical Science,
Biology, and Chemistry). Young adults are natural investigators; they want to find out the 'how come' and the 'why' of the world
2015 Bench to Bedside Summer Institute Program Book
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around them. My job as a high school teacher is one of inspiring love for the sciences and promoting science literacy. I have
taught the low-level-readers 9th graders to the seniors in the Advanced Placement Chemistry classes. I use multiple teaching
strategies to ensure all students have the opportunity to develop as science learners during the year they are with me. I bel ieve
that all students can and learn.
Mr. James Powell Jr., Roosevelt Middle School
Biographical Sketch: My name is James Powell, and I am from West Palm Beach, Florida. I have been a teacher for the last 15
years. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology Pre- Medicine from Florida A&M University. I absolutely love
working with young people. I never envisioned myself teaching, but after getting a "temporary" job as a teacher right out of
college, I fell in love with the profession. The biggest enjoyment I get is when things finally click with a student who has been
really struggling throughout the lesson or throughout the chapter. I also always see m to run into former students who inform me
that I was a difference maker in their lives. There is no better feeling in the profession than that. I try to be the same type of
teacher that I want my own kids to have. This has been my major motivation to continue teaching.
Ms. Carlene Rogers, Wekiva High School
Biographical Sketch: I have been teaching at Wekiva High School in Apopka, FL since it opened in 2007. I have also lived in
Apopka for 23 years. I have three children, all who have attended Wekiva High. In fact, one of my daughters enrolled in my
anatomy honors course. I currently teach Anatomy & Physiology Honors and AP Biology and am very interested in biomedical
technology.
Mr. Brian Ruhmann, MAST Academy at Homestead
Biographical Sketch: I am currently teaching in a medical arts magnet academy. Previously, I was the Academy Lead Teacher for
the Pharmaceutical Academy where I responsible for developing the curriculum. Next year I am transitioning to the IMED
Academy Lead Teacher. The IMED Academy will be a student centered and student driven curriculum focusing on clinical
medicine. My educational passions are developing, implementing and delivering student centered and student dr iven inquiry
based curriculum. I also started an EDD program with dual concentrations in Curriculum and Instruction and Educational
Leadership.
Mrs. Donely Santiago, Mandarin High School
Biographical Sketch: During attending the University of Central Florida, I worked as a volunteer for the Canaveral Seashore Turtle
Protection Program. If possible, I would have an outside teaching classroom.
Mrs. Wendy Vidor, Matanzas High School
Biographical Sketch: I am an Agriculture Biotechnology Teacher. I have my Master’s degree in Science from the University of
Florida. I am currently pursuing my doctorate in Environmental Horticulture specializing in plant biotechnology. My dissertation is
creating modules for teachers to teach the concepts of plant biotechnology with blended learning methods. I currently teach at
Matanzas High School in Flagler County and have taught there for 8 years.
Mr. Steven Wilkie, South Fort Myers High School
Biographical Sketch: I went to school and studied marine science and biology with no immediate aspirations to be a teacher. A
year long trip abroad made me realize that teaching was something I would like to pursue. Since making that decision I have
been able to put my college majors (marine science and biology) into direct use in my classrooms, since I currently teach AP
Biology and Marine Honors.
2015 Bench to Bedside Summer Institute Program Book
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2015 School Demographic Information
Florida Department of Education Reported (2009-2010 data) from the No Child Left Behind Data
Student Demographic Category: Economically Disadvantaged
Bak MSOA
Approx % of economically
disadvantaged students
19.81
Hollywood Hills High School
61.56
Jesuit High School Tampa*
--
Lake Worth High School
60.95
Lantana Community Middle School
61.57
Leesburg High School
45.75
Leto High School
73.20
Mandarin High School
15.52
MAST Academy at Homestead
35.27
Matanzas High School
40.40
Palm Beach Central High School
23.14
Roosevelt Middle School
70.87
Satellite High School
12.17
Seagull School
78.95
South Fort Myers High School
54.24
Wekiva High School
47.16
Western High School
28.93
William T. Dwyer High School
33.08
School
*Information not available at this time
2015 Bench to Bedside Summer Institute Program Book
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UF CPET BENCH TO BEDSIDE FACULTY AND STAFF INFORMATION
UF CPET
Box 112010, 334 Yon Hall
Gainesville, FL 32611-2010
Phone: 352.392.2310; Fax: 352.392.2344
Email: cpet@cpet.ufl.edu; http://www.cpet.ufl.edu; http://cpetbenchtobedside.com
Mary Jo Koroly, Ph.D.
Research Associate Professor, College of Medicine
Director, UF CPET, Academic Affairs
PI, Bench to Bedside grant
Work: 352-392-7685; Cell: 352-317-5459
Email: korolymj@cpet.ufl.edu
Mary Jo is Director of the University of Florida Center for Precollegiate Education and Training (UF CPET) and a faculty member in the
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology in the College of Medicine. She served on the faculties of Bryn Mawr College and
Harvard Medical School before coming to UF in 1979. Her research interests and publications are in the area of cell regulation,
membrane biochemistry, and science education. From 1989 - 1994, she served as the founding director of the Education and
Training Program of the UF Interdisciplinary Center for Biotechnology Research, a laboratory-based workshop program to teach new
concepts and techniques of DNA science to scientists and physicians, graduate and medical students, secondary school teachers, and
non- science professionals. She continues to teach undergraduate and graduate courses, directs the Biochemistry and Molecular
Biology course for medical students, and serves on numerous education committees on campus and throughout Florida. Since 1995,
she has led UF CPET in science, math and technology programs that link UF research faculty and graduate students with inservice
teachers and their motivated students in grades 6-12. She welcomes new collaborations in basic and applied science outreach with
universities and businesses, with UF faculty and students, and with Florida's K-14 educators and students.
Julie Bokor, MAE
UF CPET Assistant Director
Cell: 352.317.6367
Email: julie@cpet.ufl.edu
Julie joined CPET in May of 2001. She received her Bachelor's Degrees in Zoology and Microbiology and Cell Science from the
University of Florida as well as a Master’s in Science Education. She is currently a doctoral candidate in the UF School of Teaching
and Learning. Julie has worked in both industrial and academic molecular biology laboratories. Her responsibilities include the
development and implementation of workshops and educational opportunities designed to update high school and middle school
science, math, and technology teachers on recent developments in their content area. Julie coordinates all of the CPET programs for
teachers including Bench to Bedside, ICORE, Mini Medical School, and the Summer Science Institutes.
Houda Darwiche, Ph.D.
Post-Doctoral Fellow/Program Coordinator
UF CPET Bench to Bedside
Office: 352.392.2310; Cell: 352.214.5937
Email: houdad@cpet.ufl.edu
Houda joined CPET in January of 2011. She has a Ph.D. from UF in Biomedical Sciences that focused on Molecular Cell Biology, and
was a double major in Chemistry and Biology at Florida Southern College in Lakeland. Her graduate research involved the study of
liver regeneration via stem cells, and the cellular signaling mediating those processes. Houda is responsible for overseeing CPET’s
Biomedical Explorations: Bench to Bedside Program, which is a professional development program for science teachers, which
focuses on increasing student interest in science and biotechnology careers. Houda also serves as the liaison for B2B teachers during
the school year, and assists with implementation of Action Proposals that include equipment loans and classroom support for
teachers implementing biotechnology curricula into their day-to-day classes.
Margarita Hernandez
Program Assistant
Office: 352.392.2310; Cell: 954.696.3502
Email: Maggie@cpet.ufl.edu
2015 Bench to Bedside Summer Institute Program Book
Page 14
Maggie is a recent graduate from the University of Florida, majoring in Biology and Anthropology. During her time as an
undergraduate, she worked on various research projects ranging from the investigation of color acquisition in flowering plants to
dietary analyses of the greenhouse frog on Seahorse Key. During the summer of 2013 and 2014, Maggie volunteered in the plant
phylogenetics module for the Science Quest and Stem Immersion programs for CPET. She joined the CPET team in May of 2015,
hoping to aid in the communication of research between scientists, teachers and students.
BENCH TO BEDSIDE PRESENTERS
Keith Choe, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Department of Biology
kchoe@ufl.edu
http://choelab.weebly.com/
Dr. Choe received his PhD from the University of Florida in 2005 studying physiological and molecular mechanisms of osmotic and
acid-base homeostasis in fishes. He later did his postdoctoral training at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center where he studied
physiological, molecular, genetic, and biochemical mechanisms of stress resistance in C. elegans. He has been a principal
investigator at Florida since 2009.
Mike Conlon, Ph.D.
Associate Director and Chief Operating Officer, UF Clinical and Translational Science Institute
mconlon@ufl.edu
http://plaza.ufl.edu/mconlon/
Dr. Conlon is committed to helping people through the use of informational technology. In addition to his duties as the Associate
Director and COO of the CTSI, he is principal investigator for "VIVO: Enabling National Networking of Scientists," an NIH funded study
to develop and implement a semantic web-based platform for representing faculty interests, activities and accomplishments, and
make that data available to search, social networking and a new generation of interoperable collaborative applications.
Kent Crippen, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of STEM Education
kcrippen@coe.ufl.edu
https://crippen.education.ufl.edu/main/
Dr. Crippen’s research involves the design, development, and evaluation of STEM cyberlearning environments as well as teacher
professional development. Cyberlearning involves “the use of networked computing and communications technologies to support
learning” (NSF, 2008, p. 5). Operating from a design-based research perspective, this work focuses on using innovative, iterative and
theoretically grounded design for the dual purpose of addressing contemporary, complex, in situ learning problems while
concurrently generating new theoretical insight related to the process of learning and the relationships among the people, tools and
context of the problem space.
Lou Ann Cooper, Ph.D.
Office of Program Evaluation, Educational Affairs, College of Medicine
lacooper@ufl.edu
http://www.med.ufl.edu/about/admin.shtml
Dr. Cooper is the director of the Office of Program Evaluation at UF’s College of Medicine, the goals of which are to continually and
systemically monitor the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the College’s educational programs and to promote
educational scholarship.
Jessica Mahoney
Life Sciences Teacher
Edgewater High School
Jessica.mahoney@ocps.net
Jessica Mahoney teaches advanced life sciences (AP Biology and Honors Biology) at Edgewater High School in Orlando, Florida. She
strives to provide real world scientific explorations in the classroom setting, allowing students to investigate the natural world and
draw their own meaningful conclusions using authentic research methods. Jessica has been fortunate to have many opportunities
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via both professional development and summer curriculum writing with UF CPET, which have opened other doors as a science
educator including being a session presenter at NABT and NSTA annual conferences and an upcoming publication with ABT
Angela McCall
Doctoral Candidate
Interdisciplinary Program in Biomedical Sciences
gatorgirl980@ufl.edu
http://oge.med.ufl.edu/Students/Current/McCall-Angela%202012.htm
Angela is a graduate of UF, with a B.S. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. She is currently enrolled in the Interdisciplinary
Program in Biosciences at UF, in the department of Pediatrics, after which she plans to have a career in education. Angela was a
participant in CPET’s Science Quest and the Student Science Training Program and has worked with Science Quest for several years,
as well as with the Bench to Bedside program.
Wayne McCormack, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine
Director, Clinical and Translational Science Doctoral Programs
mccormac@ufl.edu
http://mccormacklab.pathology.ufl.edu/
In collaboration with Dr. Margaret Wallace and the VitGene Consortium led by Dr. Richard Spritz, Dr. McCormack’s immunogenetics
research focused on the genetics of susceptibility to vitiligo, a human autoimmune disease that causes skin
depigmentation. Susceptibility to autoimmune diseases has both genetic and environmental components. Genome-wide
association, case/control, and family-based genetic association methods provide evidence for many vitiligo susceptibility genes,
including genes involved in the normal functioning of the skin pigment-producing melanocytes and in the regulation of lymphocytes
in the immune system. Dr. McCormack’s education research focuses on the use of team-based learning (TBL) in graduate education,
responsible conduct of research (RCR) training, and student peer evaluation in medical education. Team-based learning is being
used to promote active learning and scientific thinking in graduate level basic science courses (particularly immunology), and to
improve ethical decision-making in RCR training. Although a major determinant of later professional success, peer evaluation is
under-utilized in medical education. Other ongoing studies focus on medical student summative peer evaluation, including
dimensions of professional competence, interpersonal skills, humanism, and community service.
Grant McFadden, Ph.D.
Professor
Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology
grantmcf@ufl.edu
http://oge.med.ufl.edu/BMB/bmbfacultypages/gmcfadden.html
Dr. McFadden is a Professor in the Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology at the University of Florida. He received a
B.Sc. degree (Honours Biochemistry) in 1970 and a Ph.D. degree (Biochemistry) in 1975, both from McGill University in Montreal,
Canada. In 2001, he was named Canada Research Chair in Molecular Virology and, in 2002, he received the Hellmuth Prize. He was
inducted as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada in 2004 and as a Fellow of the American Academy of Microbiology in 2007. In
1997, Dr. McFadden co-founded Viron Therapeutics, Inc. (with Dr. A. Lucas) in London, Ontario to explore the use of viral proteins
for therapeutic purposes against inflammatory diseases. He continues to expand the portfolio of viral immune modulating agents
that can be derived from the large DNA viruses and current understanding of viral pathogenesis together with immune and
inflammation based mechanisms of disease.
Ray Moseley, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Program in Bioethics, Law and Medical Professionalism
rmoseley@ufl.edu
http://www.chfm.ufl.edu/faculty/bioethics/moseley.shtml
Dr. Moseley is the founder and was the first President of the Florida Bioethics Network (FBN), and has played a key role in the
development of the FBN as a significant statewide resource and as a model for other bioethics networks around the country. His
research includes publications on 'Withdrawal of Life-Sustaining Medical Treatment,' 'Advance Medical Directives,' 'Genetic Testing,'
'New Medical Technologies,' and 'Prenatal Testing.'
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Betsy Shenkman, Ph.D
Professor
Health Outcomes and Policy, College of Medicine
eshenkman@ufl.edu
http://health-outcomes-policy.ufl.edu/faculty-directory/shenkman-betsy/
Dr. Elizabeth Shenkman is Chair of Health Outcomes and Policy and Director of the Institute for Child Health Policy. In addition, she is
a health outcomes researcher working to achieve two goals: (1) determine which combinations of health care delivery, community,
and patient factors influence quality and outcomes of care; and (2) the development of corresponding evidence-based health care
delivery system and patient-centric interventions to improve outcomes of care. A substantial portion of Dr. Shenkman’s work in
these two areas focuses on reducing cancer-related health disparities for adults and children through the implementation of
evidence-based best practices for risk detection and treatment in a range of health care settings.
Kristy Spear, M.Ed.
Advisor
UF Honors Program
kspear@honors.ufl.edu
http://www.honors.ufl.edu/Honors-Program-Staff.aspx
Kristy Spear grew up in Miami and moved to Gainesville in 2004. Before joining the Honors Program, she spent several years
in human resources with responsibilities ranging from training and development to global faculty recruitment. Capitalizing on the
experience she gained in HR, Kristy transitioned to a role in career services. As the Assistant Director for Career Development at the
Career Resource Center she designed and implemented programs to aid students in career exploration and preparation. Many of
these programs were presented at national conferences and used as model initiatives at other institutions. Kristy’s interest in career
development may be attributed to some of her unique employment experiences- ballroom dance instructor, Scareactor at
Halloween Horror Nights and pyrotechnician to name a few. Kristy earned an interdisciplinary B.S. degree from the University of
Central Florida with a focus on Health and Communication and graduated with a minor in Hospitality Management. She received her
M.Ed. from the University of Florida in Educational Leadership and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Educational Technology. When not
at work or studying, Kristy spends most of her free time outdoors kayaking or biking with her husband. She enjoys reading, traveling,
music (playing, listening, or dancing to) and never turns down an opportunity to learn something new.
Colin Sumners, Ph.D.
Professor
Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics
Director, Junior Honors Medical Program
csumners@ufl.edu
http://physiology.med.ufl.edu/faculty/sumners/
Dr. Sumners’ research group investigates the cellular, molecular and physiological actions of angiotensin II (Ang II) in the brain. Of
particular interest are the intracellular mechanisms by which AT1-receptors and AT2-receptors couple to changes in neuronal
activity and gene expression; the role of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) as a regulator of the physiological actions of
Ang II in the brain; the putative cellular and physiological actions of AT2-receptors in the brain.
Naohiro Terada, Ph.D.
Professor
Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine
terada@pathology.ufl.edu
http://teradalab.pathology.ufl.edu/
Human iPSCs are pluripotent stem cells artificially generated by transiently expressing a set of exogenous transcription factors in
somatic cells. We now realize the cells have a great value as a system to model human diseases. iPSCs can be generated from skin
biopsies or blood samples of patients, and can be differentiated in vitro into cell types which are not easily accessible in patients,
such as neurons and cardiomyocytes. Since iPSCs retain all the genomic information from the original patients, iPSCs can be utilized
to study how genetic aberrancies in the patient manifest in target cells in vitro. Indeed, pioneering studies have demonstrated that
disease-specific iPSCs are useful for understanding disease mechanisms. Moreover, iPSC-derived cells, when recapitulating some
disease phenotypes in vitro, can be a fast-track screening tool for drug discovery. Further, iPSCs will also become a valuable tool to
predict drug efficacy and toxicity for individuals, thus promoting personalized medicine. To this end, we established the Center for
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Cellular Reprogramming (http://ccr.med.ufl.edu/) in the institute and are actively promoting patient iPSC research in collaboration
with many internal and external investigators. Since we first identified the 4th member of mammalian adenine nucleotide
translocase (ANT) genes about a decade ago, we have been studying function and regulation of mammalian Ant paralogs. ANTs are
the most abundant proteins in mitochondria and primarily exchange the ADP/ATP through the mitochondrial inner membrane
(MIM), thus they play an essential role in bioenergetics in eukaryotes. ANTs have also been implicated in regulation of the
mitochondrial permeability transition pore (MPTP) and are implicated in uncoupling, and therefore may also play a role in the
control of cellular survival and death. All eukaryotes have multiple ANT family genes (paralogs), and their gene expression is
differentially regulated. In some cases, expression is presumably dependent on the extracellular oxygen and nutrient environment,
and in other cases, expression is controlled in a tissue-specific manner. Using mouse genetics, yeast genetics and biochemical
approaches, we are identifying both specific and redundant roles of ANT paralogs in mammalian development, homeostasis and
disease.
David Weinstein, M.D., M.M.Sc.
Associate Professor
Division of Endocrinology
Director, Glycogen Storage Disease Program
weinsda@peds.ufl.edu
http://idp.med.ufl.edu/BMB/bmbfacultypages/dweinstein.html
While patients with glycogen storage disease are now surviving into adulthood, long-term complications remain common, and Dr.
Weinstein's team has focused on elucidating the cause of these complications. Previous studies have revealed the pathophysiology
for anemia and renal complications in GSD, and Dr. Weinstein's lab continues to investigate complications in GSD I including
hepatocellular carcinoma, hepatic adenomas, and athersclerosis. Curing the glycogen storage diseases remains the ultimate goal. Dr.
Weinstein's laboratory is working on ways to cure the disease through gene therapy or replacement of glucose-6-phosphatase
activity. Stem cell therapy is presently being attempted in the mice with GSD type Ia, and gene therapy is being performed in the
naturally occurring canine model of this disease.
Kristin Weitzel, Pharm.D., CDE, FAPhA
Clinical Associate Professor
College of Pharmacy
Associate Director, Personalized Medicine Program
kweitzel@cop.ufl.edu
http://pharmacy.ufl.edu/faculty/kristin-weitzel/
Dr. Weitzel received her Pharm.D. from the University of Florida College of Pharmacy. After graduation, she completed a Community
Pharmacy Residency at the Virginia Commonwealth University, Medical College of Virginia School of Pharmacy. Following her
postgraduate training, Dr. Weitzel accepted an appointment as Clinical Assistant Professor at Mercer University School of Pharmacy
in Georgia while also working as a Clinical Pharmacist at the Eckerd Patient Care Centers. In July of 2000, Dr. Weitzel began her
affiliation at the University of Florida serving as a Clinical Assistant Professor in Gainesville and later as Adjunct Clinical Associate
Professor while maintaining a practice as Outpatient Pharmacy Manager for the St. Vincent’s Health System in Orange Park,
Florida. Dr. Weitzel has also served as Assistant Editor and later as Director of Editorial Projects at the Therapeutic Research
Center. She became Director of Experiential Education in 2011 and began her current appointment as Associate Director of the
Personalized Program in July 2013. Dr. Weitzel’s research interests include technology implementation in community pharmacy
practice and preceptor training programs and personalized medicine.
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