Beverly Owens

Tell us about your work / research. What kinds of things do you do?

I am a high school science teacher at Cleveland Early College High School in North Carolina. I have over 20 years of experience as an educator, I enjoy helping students explore the “world of science.”  My goal is to inspire the next generation of scientists and explorers, and to help every student to know that anyone can become a scientist or explorer. I seek out opportunities to explore different facets of science, to help increase my content knowledge, and to learn ways that I can translate current scientific research into classroom experiences. This has led me to getting involved in multiple teacher-scientist research experiences including Kenan Fellows, dinosaur digs in Wyoming, the MBARI EARTH Program in Hawai’i, Project Archaeology Leadership Academy in Montana, NOAA Teacher at Sea studying deep sea corals, the NEA Foundation Global Learning Fellowship in Peru, Tropical Ecology Tour in Belize, and the Fulbright Japan ICT Teacher Exchange. These types of programs help me to learn about current scientific exploration as well as experiencing different cultures and place-based education.

What sparked your initial interest in your career? 

I have always loved science. As a child, I remember digging in the dirt hoping to find fossils and hidden treasures. My parents always fostered my curiosity and passion for science. Throughout my childhood, Christmas gifts included archaeological dig sets, a telescope, a microscope, and other things related to science. Through Girl Scouts, I was able to complete a variety of hands-on science labs and visit a variety of science and nature museums, including seeing the Ramses traveling exhibit. All of these experiences fostered my curiosity, and helped me to become who I am today. 

What element of your work / study do you think is the most fascinating?

I enjoy exploring our amazing planet, including being a NOAA Teacher at Sea, studying subseafloor sedimentology in Hawaii, Ancestral Puebloan archaeology in Colorado, dinosaur digs in Wyoming, and participating in the Fulbright Japan-US ICT Teacher Exchange. As a NEA Foundation Global Learning Fellow, I participated in a field study in Peru this summer, and hiked at several archaeological sites, including Machu Picchu. 

How did you get involved with the Nautilus Exploration Program?

In 2015, I served as a Science Communication Fellow on the E/V Nautilus during the GoMex expedition, deploying a laser spectrometer platform to examine carbon isotopes at brine pools in the Gulf of Mexico. We also transited through the Panama Canal, bringing the Nautilus from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. I am excited to be serving as a Lead Science Communication Fellow on the NA157 Hawai’i Mapping expedition!

What other jobs led you to your current career?

I have always wanted to be a teacher, and to do something related to science. In addition to teaching, I also worked part-time as a Program Specialist at the Schiele Museum of Natural History. This gave me the opportunity to learn about different aspects of engaging the general public, and community, in informal educational settings. My programs generally focused on geology, live animal encounters, marine science, and other topics related to special exhibits and public events.

What are your degrees and certifications?

Natural Science Illustration certificate (2024) - Rhode Island School of Design

Master of Arts in Middle Grades Education, Gardner-Webb University

Bachelor of Science in Middle Grades Education, Gardner-Webb University

National Board Certified Teacher

National Geographic Certified Educator

What are your hobbies?

I love spending time with my family, reading, exploring nature, and doing art. My daughter and I spend quite a bit of time together painting and drawing. I enjoy nature journaling and recording visual and written observations, allowing me to combine my passion for both art and science. I also do 3D printing and design, and recently co-authored the MakerBot Educators Guidebook about classroom applications of 3D printing.

What advice would you give someone who wants to have a career like yours?

Don’t get boxed in by traditional career pathways - innovative thinkers are necessary for pushing boundaries. Don’t be afraid to leave your comfort zone and try new things. Use your strengths and your passions to help you become who you are meant to be.