SARSEF is incredibly excited to share that Todd Gonzales has joined the SARSEF Board of Directors! Todd is the Director of Programs at Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, AZ. His leadership with STEM education has made an incredible impact on students across Arizona.
What brought you to SARSEF?
“I was invited after a wonderful meeting with some of the staff. Both SARSEF and Lowell Observatory have very similar missions and values.”
What are you interested in regarding STEM?
“Along with a deep passion for astronomy, I am a HUGE spider nerd. I especially love the aspects of STEM that solve problems and explore the universe around us. I believe wholeheartedly that we can explore the Earth and the Stars beyond simultaneously to learn more about our place here and beyond.”
If you could create your own SARSEF program or modify an existing one, what would it be and why?
“I would love to see a spot or two on the board reserved for youth. I think I would like to see more educational institutions involve young people in decision-making.”
Who is a scientist or engineer that you admire?
“I admire Carolyn Shoemaker. She was not a scientist originally until she discovered she had a skill for finding near-Earth objects. She set records and earned honorary degrees for her scientific contributions.”
Why do you care about STEM education?
“I feel it is important to not only pass knowledge on to the younger generation but it is more important to pass on a sense of curiosity about the world around us. I can’t wait to see what the younger generations develop and discover in the future.”
Finish this sentence: “SARSEF is…”
“SARSEF is the campfire around which we gather to wonder about the Universe around us and share the future of discovery.”
Learn more about Todd and meet the rest of our board members at https://sarsef.org/about-us/our-staff-and-board/