IMSEP Administrative Team
Permanent Staff
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Jeffrey Weld, PhD, is Director of the Iowa Mathematics and Science Education Partnership, the state appropriated STEM education initiative of Iowa's Regent Universities led by the University of Northern Iowa. Formerly an associate professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Northern Iowa where he designed and implemented the Natural History Interpretation program while conducting scholarly work on exemplary teaching and learning, Jeff brought a half millions dollars in grants to the biology department and in 2007 was named the USA's college biology teacher of the year by the National Association of Biology Teachers. He has authored more than fifty research articles, essays, and book chapters, along with the popular textbook The Game of Science Education published in 2004. Jeffrey is past President of the Iowa Science Teachers and of UNI's chapter of Sigma Xi — the scientific research society. Now in his third year as Director, Jeff writes, reads, speaks, leads, and collaborates at both the state and national levels in constant pursuit of excellent, equitable STEM education for all. |
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Kari Jastorff, MPA, is the Program Manager of the Iowa Mathematics and Science Education Partnership. As Program Manager, she is responsible for the IMSEP Institute office operations, budget oversight, and coordination of communication and efforts among all stakeholders involved with this partnership. Kari brings with her nearly 20 years of executive assistant experience in both the public and private sector. She also has an academic background in secondary education, office administration, and public administration. |
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Tonja Richards, CPM, MPA, is the Communications and Marketing Specialist for the Iowa Mathematics and Science Education Partnership. From media relations to event planning, Tonja brings to the team over 20 years of marketing and communication experience in both the public and private sectors. She holds a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Public Relations from Middle Tennessee State University and a Masters of Public Administration (MPA) from Drake University. In her time with the Iowa Department of Economic Development, Tonja earned a Certified Public Manager (CPM) designation, and received the Iowa Governors’ Volunteer of the Year Service Award for work with the National Governors Association (NGA). |
2010-2011 Student Assistants
- Paul Barloon, graduate assistant
- Taylor Davenport, undergraduate assistant
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