Welcome to the CSTA Volunteer Spotlight series, where we celebrate the incredible individuals who dedicate their time and passion to making a difference in the CSTA community. Join us in recognizing and appreciating the extraordinary efforts of Lisa in their role as 2024 Chair within the Conference Committee.
What inspired you to volunteer your time with CSTA? How has this experience impacted you?
I have enjoyed going to the conference and learning so much from other educators about CS education. I loved that I learned so many new lesson ideas from the CSTA annual conferences I attended.
How long have you been involved with CSTA, and what motivated you to join?
My first CSTA experience was at the Baltimore CSTA Annual Conference in 2017. It was my first all-CS conference, and I loved it. It was so nice to learn from other like-minded educators. I joined so I could help shape the future conferences.
Can you share any memorable experiences or highlights from your involvement with CSTA?
I loved CSTA 2022 in Chicago. It was my first conference as a committee member. I loved being able to choose sessions and building a conference that was beneficial for all CS educators.
How has CSTA impacted your teaching career and professional development?
CSTA has helped me be involved and given me many learning opportunities throughout the year. I join sessions and workshops outside the conference time and learn a lot throughout the year.
In what ways do you see CSTA shaping the future of computer science education?
Computer science teachers know that CSTA provides professional development for ALL CS educators. As a whole, CSTA aims to be equitable and diverse so that everyone has opportunities to learn. CSTA is always looking for new and current trends in professional development and provides those learning opportunities to all CS teachers.
Are there any specific initiatives or projects within CSTA that you’ve been particularly passionate about?
As a committee chair, I have been involved with creating a strong lineup of sessions where all CS teachers can learn. We focus on finding the best sessions for CS teachers. We look through different viewpoints and make sure all CS teachers are able to take away information and lesson ideas for their classrooms.
What does the future of CSTA look like?
The future of CSTA has no limits. There are so many ways that teachers can be involved and learn. Teachers have no limits as to what they can learn and use in their classroom.