HOW ONE LONE WOLF FOUND HER PACK: REFLECTIONS ON THE CUTTING EDGE

Professional development is a critical part of a higher education career, especially for a solitary geoscientist at a small rural community college. Many years ago I reached out to the larger community of geoscience educators in an effort to find like-minded professionals who had a passion for being their best. A quick search of the Science Education Research Center’s website (serc.carleton.edu) reveals the journey of my professional development, through the On the Cutting Edge program and others inspired by it. When I unexpectedly found myself searching for a new position, I was proud to list my SERC page at the top of my resume. This provided prospective employers with samples of my philosophy of teaching and examples of teaching activities that I created. I am almost embarrassed at how many workshops I attended over the past 13 years. The other participants became "my pack" and continue to sustain me even while I continue as a lone wolf. I know that I have gained so much more than I have contributed to the effort, and I celebrate those who made On the Cutting Edge a reality. The legacy of this program is reflected in many other professional development opportunities, including the Earth Educator's Rendezvous. The support staff for this program must be commended for their efforts. Without them the legacy of On the Cutting Edge would not be as glorious as it is today. My diverse background and solitary position led me to teach a variety of science topics, some of which I had never tackled previously. I am grateful to have had the opportunitiy to learn and share with the best. I could not have participated in these workshops without the financial support of the NSF funding. Reviewing activities that my peers created was a fantastic way to learn, and having one of mine chosen as an exemplary was a great source of pride. My participation in this program led me to serve my new community in leadership roles, including the initiation of the Two-Year College division of the National Association of Geoscience Teachers (GEO-2YC). From small volunteer activities and workshops to serving as a Counselor-at-Large for the NAGT Executive Committee, I have made connections to geoscience educators across North America, and I no longer feel like a lone wolf.