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Erin Goergen

For SPC science professor Dr. Erin Goergen, seeing her students explore, succeed, and return to SPC to share their achievements is one of the most rewarding aspects of her work.

“I think a lot of it is when your students come back to you,” said Erin, who’s been teaching at SPC since 2012. Many of her students go on to medical school or scientific careers and have credited her guidance for their success.

“Getting that feedback where they start to become successful, going into medical school or their job, whatever they end up being, the fact that you made an impression on them is what’s the best,” she said.

Erin contributes significantly to the Natural Science department, teaching a range of biology courses, as well as advanced courses in Ecology, Botany, Ethnobotany and Disease Ecology. She’s also the faculty advisor for the student-led Tri Beta Honor Society and helps students shape their projects and activities. And she manages the native plant and edible gardens at the Clearwater Campus, and has helped organize Science Week.

Whether helping students with botanical projects or pre-med activities such as  dissections, Erin values hands-on learning which she says fosters deeper engagement. She appreciates the collaborative spirit of the Natural Science department, where faculty members support one another in creating an enriching academic environment. This camaraderie makes the College a great place to teach and learn, she said.

“Dr. Goergen is an exemplary teacher, mentor and colleague. She is truly invested in our students’ success,” said a colleague. “She always teaches an overload because she is always the one who steps in when the department needs an extra hand. Even though she is extremely busy, she is always available to help a colleague with anything they need.”