Stephanie Gardner Named PULSE Fellow
04-09-2024
The Department of Biological Sciences proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Stephanie Gardner, Associate Professor and Associate Head for Curriculum, Teaching, and Learning, as a new Fellow of the Partnership for Undergraduate Life Science Education (PULSE). PULSE is a renowned educational non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing life sciences education programs in academic departments across higher education institutions.
As a PULSE Fellow, Gardner will join a prestigious cohort of national change leaders from colleges and universities across the United States and Canada. This appointment signifies her commitment to advancing STEM education and promoting excellence in undergraduate life sciences programs.
"I am honored that a group of change leaders in undergraduate education from across the United States and beyond selected me to join them," said Gardner. "Working with PULSE will not only allow me to affect change and support instructors and departments to advance undergraduate education for all students in the Life Sciences and related fields but I will be able to bring what I learn back to our department and Purdue to support instructors and our students."
Established through collaboration between the National Science Foundation (NSF), the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), and the National Institute for General Medical Sciences (NIGMS/NIH), PULSE has evolved into a transformative force in higher education. Its Fellows, including Gardner, play pivotal roles in shaping initiatives such as the Recognition Program, Ambassadors Program, and Regional Network Workshops, which have positively impacted over 320 departments nationwide.
PULSE, a 501c3 organization since 2015, operates as a collective of change leaders rather than a traditional professional society. Gardner's selection as a Fellow underscores her demonstrated leadership in STEM education and her dedication to driving institutional change.
"We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Stephanie Gardner to the PULSE community," said Nitya Jacob, President of PULSE. "Her expertise and commitment to excellence will enrich our collaborative efforts to enhance life sciences education nationwide."
Purdue University applauds Dr. Gardner's appointment and recognizes her significant contributions to the field. We extend our full support to her as she embarks on this important endeavor with PULSE.
For more information about PULSE and its initiatives, please visit
About the Department of Biological Sciences at Purdue University
Purdue University's Department of Biological Sciences is committed to conducting innovative research that addresses pressing challenges in the life sciences. What we do is biology at scales. With a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge technologies, our faculty and students are at the forefront of discovery and innovation. We provide life changing education and game changing research. Learn more at bio.purdue.edu/.
Writer: Alisha Referda, areferda@purdue.edu
Source: Stephanie Gardner, sgardne@purdue.edu