Professor Packard is an expert on mentoring and persistence. She studies the experiences of first-generation college students, women, and minorities, with an emphasis on maximizing access to mentoring, negotiating diverse pathways in
science and technology (STEM) fields, supporting the community college transfer pathway and transitions from high school to college. As a first-generation college graduate herself, she strives to identify success strategies that support motivation and turn aspirations
into realities.
Her work is supported by the National Science Foundation
through the CAREER
and Gender In Science & Engineering (GSE)
programs (Research Crossroads Profile).
In 2005, she visited the White House where she received the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers
(PECASE),
the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. government upon early-career scientists and engineers. In addition, she has received recognition for community service.
She teaches courses in educational and developmental psychology, research, and statistics, where she integrates community-based partnerships.
She serves as a consultant for schools, community organizations, colleges and
businesses.
Packard is a proud mother of two who loves mystery books and dancing.
Upcoming Talks: SEM faculty at Springfield Technical Community College on faculty mentoring (1/25/10); Keynote for ConnectMath Conference on Transfer in Math (Feb 2010); Smith College (March 2010)
|
