Sara Silverstone

Sara Silverstone has had a diverse and extensive work experience in various roles and industries. Starting in 1990, they worked as an Assistant Professor at California State University, Bakersfield, where they taught biology and conducted research in bioremediation and microbial ecology. From 1996 to 2000, they served as an Assistant Professor at SUNY Brockport, teaching microbiology courses and supervising thesis projects.

In 2007, they joined the Rochester Area Colleges Center for Excellence in Math and Science, initially as an Associate Director and later as the Executive Director. In these roles, they managed staff and consultants, developed and executed programs in science and math education, and fostered collaboration among educational institutions and organizations.

Between 2010 and 2015, Silverstone served as the Founding Director of the Finger Lakes Regional Hub of the Empire State STEM Learning Network. In this position, they facilitated meetings among leaders from various sectors to promote STEM education and workforce development in the Finger Lakes region and acted as a liaison to state and national STEM networks.

During their time at Brockport Microbiology, where they worked as President from 1999 to 2013, Silverstone provided contract research and consulting services in environmental and industrial microbiology. Sara wrote and analyzed reports on various microbiology topics and conducted inspections for biological contamination.

From 2012 to 2015, Silverstone served as the Vice President of Research and Development at BioDrill Technical Solutions, where they managed an R&D lab and developed renewable energy products for the educational market. Sara also collaborated with colleagues at RIT on NSF STTR grant projects.

Lastly, since 2000, they have worked as a Grant Writer Consultant at Wayne-Finger Lakes BOCES, successfully securing over $20 million in grants for school districts in the Finger Lakes region. Sara assisted districts in obtaining grants for various subjects and professional development.

Overall, Silverstone's work experience showcases their expertise in education, research, grant writing, and leadership in STEM education and workforce development.

Sara Silverstone earned a Ph.D. in Microbiology from the University of California, Davis, where they studied from 1985 to 1989. Prior to that, they obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Philosophy from the State University of New York Cortland, completing their studies from 1979 to 1985. In addition to their formal education, Sara has also obtained a certification as an Approved Sponsor of Continuing Teacher and Leader Education from the NYS Education Department. The specific details regarding the month and year of obtaining this certification are not provided.