Danita Brandt, Ph.D.

As a paleontologist with two school-aged children, a top priority for Danita Brandt is communicating science (especially issues of age of the Earth and history of life) to a general audience.  Danita is active in various informal science education initiatives, including "Darwin Discovery Day" and Fossil Camp at the MSU Museum.  Danita received her bachelor’s degree in Geology from the University of Illinois, Master’s degree from the University of Cincinnati, and Ph.D. from Yale.

“I love working with kids because they love fossils and rocks too.They think that I have the best job in the world, and when I'm talking with them, I feel that way too.”

Favorite Fossils: Trilobites

Jim Harding

James H. Harding is an instructor and the natural history outreach specialist in the Department of Zoology and the Michigan State University Museum.  Jim received his B.S. and M.S. degrees from the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife at Michigan State University.  Jim is a research herpetologist specializing in the conservation biology of turtles. He is also a trained interpretive naturalist and spent nine years at the Cranbrook Institute of Science (Bloomfield Hills, MI) in that capacity.  Known as the Museum’s “Critter Guy,” Jim loves to share his extensive knowledge with students. 

Favorite Dinosaur: Triceratops

Mike Hillman

Michael is working towards a Zoology degree at Michigan State University. As an Eagle Scout, Michael has developed a special interest in the outdoor world and teaching others about it. He has also learned a great deal about the insect world through assisting with graduate resarch on honey bees.

Favorite Science Topic: Evolution

Dr. Morrissey obtained her Ph.D. in educational psychology from Michigan State University. She is a former teacher and is inspired by the potential of technology. She has taught and conducted workshops across the country and in a number of other countries including most recently, South Africa. Dr. Morrissey loves the opportunity to work with kids from across the country via virtual outreach programs.

Favorite thing about Science Education: Inspiring Curiosity

Shannon Rossio

Shannon is working towards Bachelor degress in Zoology and International Relations here at Michigan State University. She is an avid horseback rider and competes in showjumping events with her two horses. She loves to educate others about science, and is particularly interested in cell and molecular biology. She plans on pursuing a graduate degree in this field.

VOP Alumni that have moved on...

- Sasha Fawaz: Sasha is attending vet school in London

- Steve Leduc: Steve is now completing his Ph.D. dissertation

- Courtney Miller: Courtney is, also, attending vet school in London

- Wiline Pangle: Wiline completed her dissertation in the department of Zoology at Michigan State University