AACT Member Spotlight: Elizabeth Christophy



Every month AACT spotlights  a passionate member who is dedicated to enhancing chemistry inside and outside the classroom. This month, we spotlight Elizabeth Christophy. She teaches Chemistry and AP Chemistry at Sacred Heart Academy, in Hamden, Connecticut.

Tell us about yourself.

I have been a chemistry teacher for over 25 years and have taught all levels of chemistry. I love to find creative ways to engage the students and teach the content. I moderate the Science National Honor Society. One of the society's main activities is sponsoring speakers with STEM careers, to help students learn about the opportunities available to them. I also work extensively with students doing independent research that culminates in projects for our school science fair.

Why did you become a teacher? Did you always want to teach?

I did not always want to teach. I was going to be a doctor. In college, I realized I liked chemistry better than biology, so I became a chemistry major. My plan changed to becoming a college professor. I fell into teaching at the high school level, and I realized I liked it much better. At this level, I have a chance to really interact with students, and help them understand that science can be fun and relevant to their lives.

What fuels your passion for science and teaching?

My interactions with students fuels my passion for science and for teaching. When I'm working with a struggling student, and see the light bulb go on as they understand a concept or a student says something amazingly insightful out of the blue - those are the moments that make it all worth it.

What are you most proud of in your work?

I'm most proud of helping students to find their passion for STEM subjects. I have had many students come back to tell me they found a love of science from my class and my passion for the subject. I have students who struggled in class but now work in STEM fields.

What do you do to remain current and bring the latest science into the classroom?

I listen to podcasts to remain current. I put some of the really interesting podcasts on my class website, so the students can listen too, if they choose. Many times I'll hear something I can turn into a lesson or a question. I also read science books and go to webinars.

Share some words of wisdom to other chemists.

To me, the trick to reaching students is to find a variety of ways for students to interact with the material. I am always looking for ideas to explain difficult concepts in a new way to students. I do a lot of hands-on lessons, including a lot of laboratory experiments. The students work together in small groups and help each other. I bring in real-world examples whenever I can.