Dr. Stacey-Ann Benjamin
Instructional Faculty
Department of Chemistry
University of Florida
What motivated you to excel at UF?
Being at UF as an international graduate student was my first real university experience, as I had previously attended a very small liberal arts college for women. I challenged myself to do the best I could in order to prove that I belonged here. During my tenure, I leaned on, and was supported by so many people in our wonderful department, specifically Dr Gail Fanucci, Dr Ben Smith, Dr Talham and Mrs Lori Clark. I also had a younger sister who looked up to me and parents who sacrificed a lot to afford me this opportunity, so I was determined not to let them down. Additionally, I loved (and still love) chemistry – there was no plan B so I had to succeed.
What are your career goals?
I strive everyday to be better at my craft, to utilize improved pedagogy and technology based on science education research to offer solid foundational understanding of basic chemical principles to first year students. It is my goal to encourage and nurture scientific curiosity while assisting students to develop problem-solving skills that will make them better leaders, thinkers, and innovators for years to come.
How have Black role models inspired you?
Unfortunately, while on my journey to becoming an educator, I did not have a black role model. However I would be remiss if I did not mention the person who inspired me the most – Dr Jeff Keaffaber – who was a general chemistry lecturer here. He inspired my love for teaching as I watched him on several occasions be passionate about student learning while seeking new ways to effectively teach what most would consider a difficult course for university freshmen.
What does DEI mean to you?
After teaching my first lecture here at UF, three students of color approached me and said that I was the first black instructor they’ve had while being here. It wasn’t until then that I realized how important representation is in all settings, including higher education. Diversity, equity and inclusion are important for a variety of reasons, but specific to me, it is important that all students feel like they belong regardless of where they come from or what they look like. We should be equally given the opportunity to learn in an environment that is safe and one where our contributions are valid and valued because each person has a unique skillset to contribute to the table of lifelong learning and knowledge.