Mary A. Meyer initially wanted to become a chemical engineer, holding onto this aspiration from eighth grade through her early years at the University of Wyoming. But, while in college, as she neared the completion of her degree, she sought job application advice from her counselor, who suggested she try classroom teaching—which she did, and she immediately loved it. Ms. Meyer subsequently converted her chemical engineering degree into a teaching certificate, ultimately earning a Bachelor of Science in chemistry and education in 1987, and has not stopped teaching since.

With more than four decades of experience, Ms. Meyer has excelled as an impactful chemistry teacher at Jordan School District in Utah since 1996. A hands-on educator, she transformed what was initially a strictly textbook-based, dull science lesson plan into an experience full of engaging activities that has made the subject matter more exciting and relevant to her students. Her primary goal has always been to help students find their potential in the classroom, always improve, and find enjoyment in science along the way.

Having previously taught biology, marine biology, environmental science, general biology, physics, AP chemistry, life science, earth systems, and physical science, Ms. Meyer currently teaches concurrent and general chemistry. Among her day-to-day responsibilities, she conducts seven 90-minute classes with approximately 36 students per class, and one to two labs per week each class. She also mentors new teachers and supports their professional growth—always advising that the next generation of educators never stop learning and never giving up, emphasizing the importance of persistence and not underestimating themselves. She also serves as a technology coach, leads the after-school science club, and advises chief science officers.

Amid her teaching responsibilities at Jordan, she continued her education with a Master of Science in chemistry and education from the University of Utah in 2005. She has also remained dedicated to her field through memberships with the National Science Teaching Association, Utah Science Teaching Association, and Jordan Education Association.

Prior to this position, Ms. Meyer taught seventh to 12^th graders at a school in North Dakota for two years and served as a school-to-careers coordinator at Natrona County School District #1 in Wyoming. Looking toward the future, Ms. Meyer intends her hobby for artwork, glasswork, and sandcarving into a business upon her retirement.