Continued...Faculty Profile: Perry Thomas

Her first passion is for teaching and conducting research in the biological sciences, which is reflected in her educational history: B.A. Biology, Dartmouth; M.A. Teaching Biology, Northern Arizona University; Ph.D. Biology, Northern Arizona University. However, when she chose to put on the Dean of the College hat three years ago, she was forced to abandon many of the courses she had been teaching. Now that she is Dean, she admits with a tinge of regret, she spends much of her time on administrative responsibilities.

Despite this, Perry still manages to keep one foot in the classroom. She appears as a guest lecturer in many classes, giving presentations and workshops on grant writing, research methodology, various topics in conservation biology and, her specialty, amphipod research. Last year, Perry also taught a pilot course in ocean studies, which she plans on expanding to integrate online distance learning with hands on service learning projects. This will allow students to access online resources and expertise in marine ecology and oceanography and gain hands on experience in the field. Students will travel to Archie Carr National Seashore, where they will help restore sea turtle habitat.

In addition to this new Ocean Studies course Perry has also helped develop new courses such as Integrated Chemistry and Physics and Introductory Genetics. Through two separate technology grants she has been able to obtain new, environmentally friendly microchemistry equipment and an electrophoresis unit (used in genetics testing), for use in these courses.

There is no doubt that Perry’s plate is full. One might think that juggling all of these different jobs might make her a bit stressed. Most people who have a hectic work schedule find it easier if they enjoy what they’re doing. When one sees Perry on campus, calmly walking from one errand to another, always smiling and waving at students and her colleagues, it is easy to see that she is enjoying her day.- By Paul Ferrari ’06, Admissions Counselor (Back to News and Views)